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A gutter downspout splash guard is a simple yet effective solution to prevent water damage around your home's foundation. It's a must-have for any homeowner who wants to protect their property from costly repairs.
Water damage from overflowing gutters can lead to foundation cracks, mold growth, and even structural damage. Installing a gutter downspout splash guard can help redirect water away from your home's foundation.
By installing a splash guard, you can prevent water from splashing back onto your home's foundation, walls, and nearby plants. This can also help prevent erosion and soil instability around your home's foundation.
A well-designed gutter downspout splash guard can make a big difference in keeping your home safe from water damage.
Discharge Methods
Discharge methods for gutter downspouts are crucial to prevent water from eroding the soil at the foundation. There are different methods to control water discharge, ranging from simple to high-quality systems.
A drainage plumbing system is the highest quality method, carrying water directly to the storm sewer. It should be adequately sized to prevent backup and have clean outs for periodic cleaning.
Properly sloped soil drainage and gutter downspout splash blocks are also effective methods, preventing water from eroding the soil at the foundation. A gutter downspout with an elbow at its discharge can direct water away from the foundation.
The downspout should empty into a splash block that is graded and configured to direct water away from the foundation. This simple method is effective in controlling runoff.
Splash Guard Options
Plastic splash blocks are a great choice if you want something easy to install.
They work well, but they can become displaced or damaged by lawncare equipment.
Downspout extensions, on the other hand, work extremely well in moving water away from the house, as long as they stay intact.
However, they require more installation work than splash blocks, especially if you choose an underground trenching option.
If you're looking for a hassle-free solution, plastic splash blocks are a better option.
Concrete Splash Guards
Concrete splash guards are a popular alternative to downspout extensions, and for good reason. They're durable and can withstand harsh weather conditions and lawn equipment.
You can find concrete splash guards in various sizes, including 2 and 3 feet long. The 2-foot option is a great choice for smaller spaces, weighing in at 50 pounds and measuring 24 inches wide.
A 3-foot concrete splash guard, on the other hand, can accommodate larger gutters and distribute water further away from a building's foundation. It weighs 83 pounds and is 36 inches wide.
Here's a comparison of the two sizes:
Both sizes are 11.5 inches wide and 2-3/4 inches high, and are made to order with an estimated lead time of 4-6 weeks.
Concrete: Pros and Cons
Concrete splash blocks provide a practical solution for diverting water away from foundations, but choosing the right size is crucial. A longer splash block can move more water further from the house, but it can be difficult to hide.
Smaller splash blocks are easier to hide by planting shrubs next to them, but they don't deposit water as far from the house. To install a concrete splash block correctly, the closed end goes toward your home, with the open end facing away.
Angling the block slightly creates a downward slope to direct the water away from your home. This careful placement is essential for effective water diversion.
Concrete from Nitterhouse
Concrete from Nitterhouse is a reliable choice for splash guards. Nitterhouse Masonry Products offers high-quality concrete splash blocks that can withstand even the strongest winds.
Their concrete splash blocks have sturdy construction and last for years without maintenance. You can choose from different size options to fit your specific needs.
The 2′ concrete splash block is a great option for smaller spaces, weighing 50 pounds and fitting into flower beds or near sidewalks. This size can easily be disguised by small shrubs.
The 3′ concrete splash block is a better choice for slightly larger areas, retaining more water and accommodating prominent gutters. This 83-pound concrete guard can distribute water even farther away from a building's foundation.
Both lengths of splash blocks are 11.5″ wide and 2-3/4″ high. They're made to order, so be prepared for an estimated lead time of about 4-6 weeks from the date of order.
Sources
- https://profengineering.com/why-splash-blocks/
- https://www.nitterhousemasonry.com/blog/concrete-splash-blocks-vs-plastic-splash-block-vs-downspout-extensions/
- https://www.nitterhousemasonry.com/our-products/concrete-splash-blocks/
- https://mygutterdoctor.com/what-way-should-splash-blocks-face/
- https://homebuddy.store/products/gutter-downspout-splash-block
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