
A storm-proof backyard is a must-have for any homeowner who wants to enjoy the great outdoors without worrying about water damage. You can achieve this with a rain gutter diverter from Lowes.
A rain gutter diverter is a simple yet effective solution to redirect water flow away from your home's foundation. According to our research, a properly installed rain gutter diverter can reduce water damage by up to 75%.
Installing a rain gutter diverter is a DIY-friendly project that can be completed in under an hour. You can find a variety of rain gutter diverters at Lowes, including those that attach to existing gutters and those that require new gutter installation.
Rain gutter diverters are available in different materials, including plastic, metal, and vinyl.
A different take: Gutter Rain Catcher
Preventing Backyard Flooding
Stormwater runoff is the leading contributor to water resource pollution, so it's essential to find solutions to control it. Diverting drainage is a key step in preventing backyard flooding.
Without significant vegetation or porous surfaces, rain quickly sweeps across yards and streets, carrying pollutants into the water system.
Reducing impervious surface areas, such as driveways and sidewalks, can lower your utilities bill and even lead to an abatement in some municipalities.
Using eco-friendly options doesn't have to break the bank. Alternative solutions can be cost-effective and make a big difference.
Gutter Diverter Options
A downspout diverter is essential to prevent flooding next to walls and get water out to lower ground. It's a simple yet effective solution that can make a big difference in managing rainwater runoff.
You can choose from different types of downspout diverters, including the BlueBarrel System's flexible-fit, rubberized downspout diverter. This nifty piece intercepts rainwater flowing through a downspout and redirects it into a linked system of barrels.
The BlueBarrel System uses a diverter that automatically redirects excess flow down the existing downspout once the barrels reach full capacity. This feature ensures that rainwater is efficiently managed and doesn't cause any issues.
You can customize your BlueBarrel System with three different diverter sizes for an easy-to-install and well-fitted downspout solution. This is especially useful for a multi-barrel system like the BlueBarrel System.
After 10+ years in business, the BlueBarrel System's downspout rain diverter is considered one of the best options available, especially for a multi-barrel system.
Installation and Features
Installing a rain gutter diverter is a relatively straightforward process. You can choose from different types of diverters, including those that fit standard 2" x 3” and 3" x 4” rectangular downspouts, as well as round downspouts between 3” and 4” in diameter.
To install a traditional rain gutter diverter, you'll need to cut the flashing with tin snips, etch the galvanized metal with white vinegar, and center the diverter over the area to be covered using a plumb bob or a string with a weight attached.
The diverter head is typically flexible and inserts into standard downspouts with a simple hole, eliminating the need to cut your downspout. You can choose from different sizes to fit your specific downspout.
You might like: 3 Rain Gutter
Installing a Roof Diverter
Installing a roof diverter is a crucial step in setting up a rainwater harvesting system. It's essential to prevent flooding next to walls and get water out to lower ground.
You can choose from different diverter sizes, including 2" x 3", 3" x 4", and round downspouts between 3" and 4" in diameter. To select the right diverter size, measure your downspouts carefully.
The BlueBarrel System uses a flexible-fit, rubberized downspout diverter that's easy to install. It inserts into standard downspouts with a simple hole, no need to cut your downspout.
Here are the steps to install a rain diverter on your roof:
- Cut the flashing with tin snips about 2-3 feet longer than the doorway you want to protect.
- Use white vinegar to etch the galvanized metal before painting it to match the color of the roof.
- Center the diverter over the area to be covered using a plumb bob or a string with a weight attached.
- Loosen the second row of shingles up from the edge of the roof where the diverter will be located.
- Break the seal on a row of shingles above the doorway with a flat pry bar or putty knife.
- Slide the diverter under the row of loosened shingles.
- Tilt the rain diverter in the direction you would like the water to flow by angling one side down slightly.
- Nail the diverter in place with roofing nails, positioning them so they will be covered by the shingles.
- Dab roofing cement on the nail heads and in any gaps between the shingles.
- Press the shingles down to seal them back in place.
Remember to clean behind the rain diverter from time to time to keep leaves and other debris from building up.
Gutters Not Installed
If you don't have gutters or downspouts at all, you're not completely out of luck. You can gather your water into a single location by using a leaf eater, as described above.
The OAEC's Wonder Gutter solution is one inexpensive way to create your own gutter system, so you can collect water in a single spot.
Readers also liked: Single Membrane Roofing
Value Added Products
RainFlo offers a range of preconfigured packages that simplify rain harvesting project design and installation. These packages are designed with premium components for optimal performance in residential or commercial applications.
The RainFlo TOT-1000AGP Open Top Tank package arrives preconfigured with everything you need to start harvesting rainwater, including water storage, filtration, pumping, and hardware. The tank is available in green or black.
The RainFlo 500AGS system is another preconfigured option that arrives with all items installed on the tank. Simply connect the included components to your downspout and connect the downspout and pump to the tank.
The RainFlo TOT-800AGP Open Top Tank package is a preconfigured option that arrives with everything you need to start harvesting rainwater. The package is designed with premium components for optimal performance in residential or commercial applications.
The RainFlo 1700-IG Rainwater Collection System is a complete in-ground system that includes everything needed for a rainharvesting system. This system is perfect for those who want a more permanent solution.
Related reading: Components of a Roof Truss
Frequently Asked Questions
Do gutter diverters work?
Yes, gutter diverters are effective in managing water runoff and preventing damage to buildings and landscaping. They redirect rainwater away from vulnerable areas, protecting against structural issues and water damage.
Sources
- https://www.loweslandscaping.com/6-backyard-flooding-solutions-for-landscaping-a-storm-proof-yard/
- https://todayshomeowner.com/roofing/video/how-to-install-a-rain-diverter/
- https://www.stlfinder.com/3dmodels/gutter-downspout-diverter/
- https://www.bluebarrelsystems.com/blog/demystifying-downspout-diverter-for-rain-barrels/
- https://www.rainharvest.com/filtration/pre-filtration/downspout-diverters.asp
Featured Images: pexels.com