Believe it or not, it is possible for you to accessorize your home’s downspouts. In fact, these accessories are fairly useful as they can aid your home’s gutter and downspouts when it comes to protecting your home from moisture damage. According to experts, the two best accessories for your downspouts are downspout extensions and splash blocks.
In this article, gutter guard systems installation expert Gutter Helmet of Western North Carolina discusses everything you need to know about downspout extensions and splash blocks.
Downspout Extensions
Downspout extensions are accessories that you can install either on top of the ground or below the surface with a little trenching. According to the EPA, it’s also one of the best ways to augment your downspout to carry water away from your home’s foundations. With downspout extensions, you can easily protect your foundations from moisture damage, allowing it to remain structurally sound for years to come.
Despite this advantage, downspout extension does have a drawback that you need to be absolutely aware of; they can easily be damaged by lawn maintenance equipment. Apart from that, they also lack curb appeal, which can lower your home’s value. Thankfully, there is an easy way around this as you can always opt to install a flexible corrugated drain pipe below the surface instead of leaving it above ground.
Splash Blocks
On the other hand, splash blocks are pieces of concrete or plastic that you can place below your downspout so it’ll catch the water and channel it away from your home, preventing soil erosion and foundation damage in the process. Another advantage is that they come in different sizes that you can consider according to your needs.
However, like above ground downspout extensions, you’ll need to check on them from time to time as lawn maintenance equipment can easily knock them askew. Unlike downspout extensions, however, you can’t install them underground to prevent this from happening.
Need to replace your gutters soon? Don’t hesitate to turn to Gutter Helmet of Western North Carolina, your leading professionals when it comes to installing new gutters and gutter guard systems. Give us a call at (800) 824-3772 or fill out our contact form to get your free quote. We serve homeowners in Mill Springs, North Carolina, and other nearby areas.
