For rainy days, the best thing for homeowners is to have a calming evening within the comfort of their home instead of having to worry about water damage, and apart from gutters, the second most important requirement for good drainage in a house is a downspout drainage system. Not to mention that a failing drainage system is not just frustrating but also costly. Hence, with WSC Drainage’s expert guide on the avoidable mistakes of downspout drain installation, you can say goodbye to problems caused by prolonged water exposure.
Downspout Drain Installation Don’ts You Must Know
Being a crucial part of your house’s defense against the problematic effects of water damage, downspout drain installation is something that needs a lot of careful planning and attention to detail. While you may know what to do, you may be unaware of some common yet disastrous mistakes people make when installing downspout drains.
Let’s take a look at the top 7 mistakes you should know about before starting your next downspout drain installation process:
1. Disregarding the Slope
The downspouts need to be in a position so that there is a slight slope to direct the water towards them. A wrong slope can lead to water getting pooled in the gutters and making them overflow or sag. Hence, the ideal slope size for proper drainage is supposed to be ¼ inch per 10 feet.
2. The Wrong Placement
A strategically placed downspout is crucial if you want to get optimized water flow and reduce the probability of pooling around your residence. Some common mistakes regarding the wrong placement during downspout drain installation include:
- Placing downspouts too close to the property line.
- Not incorporating the downspouts into the overall drainage system of the house.
- Improper hanger spacing.
3. Miscalculated Downspout Requirements
Just as with their placement, the size of downspouts should be calculated accurately to efficiently channel the excess water away from your house. The recommended downspout sizing calculations are:
- 2×3-inch downspouts for 5-inch gutters.
- 3×4-inch downspouts for 6-inch gutters.
| Did you know? As a general rule of thumb, you should be installing a downspout every 30 to 40 feet of gutter. But for areas with heavy rainfall, install downspouts every 20 to 30 feet. |
4. Forgetting the Drainage Pipe
Another very common issue seen during downspout drain installation is to only depend on the gravel or other materials for directing water away from the building’s foundation, and not installing drainage pipes for efficient water channeling.
5. Too Many Seams
The greater the number of seams that your downspout drainage system has, the greater the probability of leaks. Seams can easily be your biggest weakness in downspout drain installation because they increase the risk of gaps for water leakage.
6. DIYing Instead of Hiring a Pro
Another major concern is that many homeowners attempt to DIY the downspout drain installation process even though they do not have the required skills for the job. Moreover, handling your downspouts roughly can lead to scratches or dents on the surface, which, as a result, causes long-term leakage problems.
| Pro Tip: As winter can be harsh on gutters, it is recommended to check for loose joints, leaks, or cracks in drains or gutters during spring. |
7. Ignoring Maintenance
As important as it is to be detail-oriented during the downspout drain installation process, keeping it in good condition and not neglecting its upkeep is also essential. Many homeowners tend to forget that clogged downspouts are the biggest cause of water overflow and ultimately foundational damage. So, you should regularly remove any debris, leaves, or other obstructions from your downspouts.
Conclusion
Your house’s safety and structural integrity depend on accurately and properly installed downspout drains. Even the smallest mistake can cause a leak, which in turn can lead to pooling or flooding. So, whether you’re DIYing your next downspout drain installation project or hiring a professional contractor to handle the job, you need to know about the most common mistakes that beginners and experts both tend to make when dealing with downspout drains to avoid drainage chaos.
FAQs
- How do you improve downspout drainage?
Attach a downspout extension or corrugated drain pipe running several feet away from the home for safer water dispersion. - What is the best position for a downspout?
Place downspouts at every corner and every 20–30 feet along the gutter line for efficient drainage. - How to prevent downspouts from clogging?
Install downspout filters or strainers to block debris and ensure smooth water flow. - What happens if downspout drains are installed incorrectly?
Poor installation can lead to water pooling, foundation damage, basement leaks, and landscape erosion. - Do I need a professional for downspout drain installation?
Yes, hiring a drainage contractor ensures proper grading, placement, and long-term protection for your property.