When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, your gutter system plays a huge role. Gutters direct rainwater away from your roof, but if downspouts are not properly managed, that water can pool around your foundation. One solution many homeowners consider is burying downspouts underground. But is burying downspouts a good idea? The waterproofing experts at AWS are here to take a closer look at the benefits, potential drawbacks, and why professional guidance can help you make the best decision for your home.
Why Homeowners Bury Downspouts
Burying downspouts can be appealing for both functional and aesthetic reasons. By extending the downspouts underground, you move water farther away from your home’s foundation while eliminating the long, visible extensions that may clutter your yard. It can make your landscaping look cleaner and reduce the risk of tripping hazards. Also, underground downspout extensions can prevent water from saturating your flowerbeds, walkways, or driveway edges. When properly installed, they direct water to a safe drainage point such as a dry well, storm drain, or lower portion of your yard.
The Benefits Of Buried Downspouts
- Foundation Protection – By moving water away from your home, you reduce the risk of water seeping into your basement or crawl space.
- Improved Landscaping – Burying downspouts allows your lawn and landscaping to remain undisturbed by unsightly pipe extensions.
- Reduced Erosion – Underground systems help minimize soil erosion near your home caused by heavy runoff.
- Long-Term Efficiency – A properly designed system can manage large amounts of water during storms, giving you peace of mind.
The Potential Drawbacks
Buried downspouts can be effective, but problems can arise if they aren’t installed correctly. Clogs from leaves and debris, poor slope design that causes pooling, and even freezing in colder climates can all create costly issues. Since underground systems are harder to maintain, it’s best to have them installed by experienced professionals like our waterproofing experts at AWS to ensure reliable, long-term protection.
Is Burying Downspouts Right For Your Home?
Whether burying downspouts is a good idea depends on your specific property. Factors such as soil type, slope, rainfall levels, and existing drainage issues all play a role. For some homes, an underground system is a smart investment that protects the foundation and keeps the yard looking sharp. For others, it may introduce more risks than benefits if not designed correctly.
That’s where professional help makes all the difference. At AWS, our waterproofing specialists have years of experience designing and installing effective drainage solutions. We can assess your home, recommend whether buried downspouts are the best option, and ensure that the system is built to last.
Trust AWS For All Your Waterproofing Needs
Water damage is one of the most expensive and stressful problems a homeowner can face, but it’s also one of the most preventable. Don’t take chances with DIY drainage systems or unreliable contractors. Trust the waterproofing experts at AWS to protect your home from costly foundation issues. Contact us online today to schedule an inspection and learn how we can help keep your basement dry and your foundation safe.
