Your gutters collect the water. Your downspouts direct it. Where that water goes determines whether your foundation stays dry or your basement floods.
Downspouts must direct water at least 4-6 feet away from your foundation — 10 feet is better. Wisconsin’s clay-heavy soils don’t drain well, making proper downspout routing critical. Solutions include extensions, splash blocks, underground drain pipes, and rain barrels. A single improperly directed downspout can dump 500+ gallons per storm against your foundation.
| Solution | Cost | Effectiveness | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Underground drain to daylight | $500-$2,000 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
| Rigid extensions (6-10 ft) | $30-$60 | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Low |
| Flexible extensions | $15-$30 | ⭐⭐⭐ | Medium |
| Splash blocks | $10-$20 | ⭐⭐ | Low |
| Rain barrels | $50-$200 | ⭐⭐⭐ | High (winter drain) |
Minimum 4-6 feet, but 10 feet is recommended in Wisconsin due to our clay-heavy soils. Wisconsin soil doesn't drain quickly, so water pooling near the foundation has more time to infiltrate.
Free inspections. Transparent pricing. Lifetime warranty on every project.