Downspouts

Today most home owners have gutters to catch roof run off water.  That water then travels into horizontal downspouts and discharges along the foundation of the house.  Often landscapers extend the downspouts underground to get the discharge water further away from the house.  The most common pipe used to do that is 4" black corrugated pipe.  This pipe is easy to use because it comes in long sections and can be curved due to its design.  It's important to know exactly where the pipe ends in your yard so it can be checked and kept clean.  Any debris on your roof will end up going through the down spouts and can clog the drainage pipe over time.  Leaves, small stones from asphalt shingles, soot, debris, tennis balls and more will slow water flow.  A clogged pipe will cause your gutters to over flow which can result in damage to your roof and walls in extreme cases.  We recommend that underground downspouts be checked every spring and fall.  Make sure any blockages are cleaned out promptly by removing endcaps and flushing clean water through the pipe with a garden hose.