Managing the water that comes off your room is crucial for protecting your Kansas City home from water damage. One of the most effective solutions is the installation of buried downspouts, also known as gutter drains. Unlike traditional downspouts that simply direct water to the base of your home, buried downspouts carry water safely away from your foundation, preventing a ton of expensive foundation problems. At High Flow Drainage Solutions, we specialize in the professional installation of buried downspouts, ensuring your property remains dry and secure.
Why Bury Your Downspouts?
Burying your downspouts offer a significant upgrade over traditional above-ground systems which simply emit water right next to the home. The main reason to bury your downspouts instead of using “splashguards” or “gutter extenders” is to remove hydraulic pressure from your foundation walls and reduce possible soil expansion. When soil becomes saturated with water, it expands, which pushes against your foundation walls.
Here’s more about why they’re an essential component of your home’s drainage system:
- Foundation Protection: By directing water away from your home’s foundation, buried downspouts prevent soil erosion and reduce the risk of cracks and structural damage. This is actually the main reason our clients call us.
- Prevention of Basement Flooding: Water that pools near your home’s foundation can seep into your basement, leading to costly repairs and potential mold growth. Buried downspouts mitigate this risk by carrying water far from your home.
- Improved Aesthetics: Gutter Extensions and splashguards just look bad. Plus, these traditional methods must me moved during mowing, increasing maintenance.
How Buried Downspouts Work
The function of buried downspouts is simple yet highly effective.
When it rains, water flows from your roof into the gutters and down into the downspouts. Instead of spilling out at the base of your home, the water is carried through a network of underground pipes. These pipes extend away from your home and foundation, directing water to a safe distance where it can be absorbed into the ground through a pop-up emitter or diverted to a drainage system. We aim for a discharge area at least 20 feet away from the home, but like to see 25+ when possible.
The key to an effective buried downspout system is proper installation. The pipes must be laid at the correct slope to ensure water flows smoothly without pooling or backing up. One form of incorrect slope we see when replacing failed systems is when the pipe creates a “belly” due to improper installation, where water and debris can pool, unable to discharge, eventually clogging the pipe. We’ve also seen situations where the previous system didn’t have enough slope, for example maybe 4% was required, while the previous system only had 2%, not moving water away as quickly as needed.
At High Flow Drainage Solutions, our team has the expertise to design and install a system that meets the specific needs of your property, ensuring long-term performance and reliability.
The Installation Process
Installing buried downspouts involves several important steps to ensure the system functions correctly and lasts for years to come. Here’s what you can expect when you choose High Flow Drainage Solutions:
- Site Assessment: We begin by evaluating your property to determine the best location for the downspouts and the optimal path for the underground pipes. We consider factors such as soil type, slope, and proximity to foundations and other structures.
- Design and Planning: Based on our assessment, we design a custom buried downspout system tailored to your home’s unique drainage needs. This includes determining the correct pipe size, material, and layout to ensure efficient water flow.
- Excavation: We carefully excavate trenches for the pipes, ensuring the correct depth and slope for optimal water flow. The trenches are strategically placed to carry water away from your home and prevent any future drainage issues. We always call DigRite, and are fully insured for your comfort.
- Pipe Installation: We install high-quality, durable pipes designed to withstand the elements and resist clogging. The pipes are laid in the trenches and connected to your home’s existing downspouts.
- Backfilling and Finishing: Once the pipes are in place, we backfill the trenches with soil and restore the surface by seeding the yard that may have been disrupted. Sometimes we also recommend a grading service, since our equipment will already be on site.
This installation process is slightly different if your solution requires a French drain or exterior sump pump system.
Frequently Asked Questions About Buried Downspouts
How deep should buried downspouts be installed?
The depth of buried downspouts can vary depending on the specific conditions of your property, and what part of Kansas City your property is located. However, a typical installation in Kansas City will bury the pipes in a trench that has a depth of 12″ to 24″. Sometimes they are buried further than 24″ to allow proper slope. This depth is sufficient to protect the pipes from damage due to foot traffic, lawn equipment, and weather conditions.
What is the best type of pipe to use for buried downspouts?
The most commonly used pipe for buried downspouts is a dual-walled corrugated high-density polyethylene (HDPE) pipe, which is slightly flexible, durable, and resistant to crushing. We often use “yellow” HDPE pipe for corners or sharp angles, since it bends easier. The choice of pipe material depends on the specific needs of your property, including soil conditions, expected water flow, and the distance the water needs to be carried.
How often should I check or maintain my buried downspouts?
Buried downspouts require minimal maintenance, but regular inspections are recommended to ensure they remain free of debris and function properly. We suggest checking the system twice a year—once in the spring and once in the fall. During these inspections, ensure that the drainage locations are free of debris and clear of dirt. If you want to be extra cautious, you can check that the downspout “riser”, or connection, isn’t bubbling over during a rain event.
Many homeowners have a pop-up emitter to discharge the water flowing out of their downspouts. If you notice any issues, such as slow drainage or water pooling near your foundation, it’s important to address them promptly to avoid damage. Call us if you’d like a professional inspection.
Why High Flow Drainage Solutions is Your Best Choice for Buried Downspouts in Kansas City
Choosing the right contractor for your buried downspout installation is crucial to ensuring the longevity and effectiveness of your drainage system. High Flow Drainage Solutions is the trusted choice for homeowners in Kansas City because we combine years of experience with a commitment to quality. Our team understands the unique challenges of Kansas City’s climate and terrain, allowing us to design and install buried downspouts that provide maximum protection for your home.
We use only the highest quality materials and adhere to industry best practices to ensure your system performs flawlessly.
Don’t wait until water damage threatens your home’s foundation… take action now with a professionally installed buried downspout system. Contact High Flow Drainage Solutions today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you safeguard your property against the elements.