A Downspout Extension May Be Needed to Fully Protect Some Homes
Here at River City Gutters, our goal across each project is to provide complete and comprehensive drainage systems to help homes and businesses adequately deal with heavy rains. In some cases, new gutters alone will provide that protection—but in others, a downspout extension may be needed to protect foundations, landscaping, and more.
Our team at River City Gutters provides custom downspout extension solutions tailored to the needs of commercial and residential properties. The type of downspout extension you may need will depend on a variety of factors. Let’s take a look at this essential service and why you may need a downspout extension for your property.
What Is a Downspout Extension? 
A downspout extension is exactly what it sounds like: it’s a product connected to a downspout that diverts water farther away from a building than the downspout would on its own. This can be done for a variety of reasons (which we’ll cover in a minute), and the types of extensions vary quite a bit.
For example, some downspout extensions may be as simple as attaching plastic tubing to the end of the gutter system, while others may be made from aluminum. In some cases a “splash block” (a short piece of concrete or stone) will direct water far enough away. Other homeowners and property owners may prefer a more complex system, such as an underground downspout extension.
Overall, however, the goal of each is generally the same: directing water farther away from the foundations of your building.
Issues with Misplaced or Too Short Downspouts
Downspout extensions are frequently needed to protect buildings from rainwater and other water runoff. In many cases, non-extended downspouts will deposit water too close to buildings or in other areas where the water may cause problems.
The most common issue that arises due to downspouts that are too short will be foundation damage. As rainwater is deposited into the soil near the side of your home or building, it collects and saturates the area near your foundations, which can cause erosion or cracks to form. While basements are rather rare here in Texas, misplaced downspouts can also create moisture issues or even cause basement flooding.
Reasons to Install a Downspout Extension 
Downspout extensions can solve a wide variety of problems. Some of the most common problems resolved with these products include:
- Foundation damage – Rainwater will be directed farther away from your home or commercial building, preventing excess moisture from accumulating and saturating foundations.
- Soil erosion/landscaping damage – Once rainwater exits your drainage system, it will flow in the most convenient direction. This often will create divots and channels in landscaping and lawns over time, as the water washes away soil.
- Flooded sidewalks – As flat surfaces that water cannot seep through, sidewalks are often prime spots for rainwater to collect. This can make sidewalks impassable, a common problem for both homeowners and business owners.
- Waterborne pests – Many pests (especially mosquitoes) will make their homes in areas of standing water. A downspout extension can help prevent this unpleasant scenario.
What Kind of Downspout Extension Do I Need?
The right type of downspout extension will depend on your needs, the type of soil on your property, and more.
For instance, some homeowners may be satisfied with a simple setup that directs rainwater through a section of plastic tubing above the ground. On the other hand, others may prefer to bury a downspout extension to preserve the appearance of their landscaping. Meanwhile, properties with sandier, more porous soil will need longer downspout extensions than those with more clay-rich soil.
A professional contractor will be able to assess your situation and make recommendations based on your needs and budget.
Call River City Gutters for an Estimate on Downspout Extension Services
As the leading gutter installers in San Antonio, our specialized team at River City Gutters frequently installs downspout extensions to provide further protection to properties. While we often do this during gutter installation projects, we also offer standalone downspout services.
If you’re experiencing issues with flooding, erosion, and other drainage problems, a downspout extension may be the solution. Reach out to our team to get started with an estimate.
