Downspouts

Downspouts are the vertical pipes that carry water from the gutters down and away from the building. Even a perfectly installed gutter fails its job if the downspouts are undersized, poorly placed or discharging water right against the foundation.

The companies below list downspout installation or repair as a service on their own official websites.

About downspouts

What downspout work involves

• Adding or relocating downspouts so each run of gutter drains properly.
• Sizing downspouts to the roof area and gutter capacity.
• Fitting elbows and extensions to move water away from the foundation.
• Connecting to underground drainage where water needs to travel farther.

Signs of a downspout problem

• Water pooling at the base of the house after rain.
• Gutters overflowing even when they're clean (too few downspouts).
• Erosion or a damp basement near a discharge point.
• Disconnected or crushed downspout sections.

Downspouts and drainage

Where a downspout discharges is as important as the downspout itself. Extensions, splash blocks or underground drain lines route water far enough from the foundation to prevent settling and basement moisture. Some companies also offer underground drainage as a related service.