A simple mistake or small damage in your downspout can have a significant impact on your home, particularly its foundation. In this article, Rapid Dri, a reputable provider of foundation repair and wall crack repair services, discusses two of the most common downspout drainage mistakes.
Downspout Ends Too Close to the Building
This is usually the culprit for wet basements and crawl spaces. If there’s erosion at the area where the downspout ends, this can cause the roof runoff to go down the foundation wall. If the downspout ends on a deck surface, the water can cause slip or fall hazards or enable water to enter the basement.
Downspout Empties Onto Settled Backfill
This can also result in basement or crawl space water entry as well as foundation damage. It happens when the downspout empties too close to the foundation and then a settled backfill sloping back towards the building sends the water right into the building.
If your home is prone to such issues, you might want to consult with experts regarding basement waterproofing systems as well as other long-term solutions suited to your home.
Downspout Empties Onto Sloped Backfill
This problem also stems from the downspout ending near the building, but it often occurs in a more subtle way. Even though the backfill may seem to slope nicely away from the structure, keep in mind that it is still less compacted than virgin soil. This means that water soaking through the backfill may reach the hard-packed original soils, which slope towards the building.
Rapid Dri provides a range of services including foundation repair and bowed walls repair services among others. Our team of trained experts ensure that every job is done to a high standard, so you can expect quality results from us. Call us at (734) 272-4495 or fill out our contact form to request a free estimate. We serve customers in Bloomfield Hills and Ypsilanti, MI.
