What is a splash block construction?
3 min read
Asked by: Duke Fiedler
Definition of splash block : a masonry block placed on the ground below a downspout to divert the water away from the building and to prevent ground washing.
What is a splash block?
The splash block is a device manufactured from concrete or plastic that works to channel water away from your foundation. The splash block is typically rectangular and has a close-ended side positioned underneath your downspout.
Are splash blocks necessary?
Whether you’re putting finishing touches on your home’s exterior, protecting your landscaping, or safeguarding against foundation and water issues, splash blocks are essential. When rainwater pools at your foundation, it can cause leaks, water damage, and microbial growth in your home.
What is the purpose of a downspout splash block?
Splash blocks are rectangular pieces of plastic or concrete placed underneath the end of the downspout. Their purpose is to direct water as far away from your home as possible while preventing the soil from eroding and causing foundation issues.
How do you place a splash block?
How are splash blocks installed? Install splash blocks directly under each downspout in your home capable of carrying water at least 3 feet away. Always adjust them in an angle away from your home; prepare to do some digging if needed. Tip: the ideal angle is a slope of 6 inches in 10 feet.
How do you use a concrete splash block?
The closed end of the concrete block goes toward your home, with the open end facing away. Angle the block slightly so the side closest to the house is raised to create a downward slope to direct the water away more easily from your home.
Do splash blocks help?
Home protection. The most important thing splash blocks do is protect your home from water damage, just as the K-Guard Leaf-Free Gutter System does at the roof line. Without a block at the base of each downspout the water simply pools near your home’s foundation.
How do you prevent gutter erosion?
Quick Fixes
- Install splash guards at each corner of your gutters to direct water through the entire system, rather than having it run off the edge. …
- Lay gravel around the existing downspout so that it slopes away from your home to protect the landscaping from erosion.
How far should downspouts extend from house?
As mentioned above, the water should be diverted at least 4 to 6 feet away from the house. If a home has basement walls, it should be at least 6 feet away. The furthest away from the foundation the better. Putting gravel or rocks at the end of the downspout to avoid erosion is a great idea.
How close should downspouts be to the ground?
Downspout drains are usually buried from 12 to 48 inches below the ground to better conceal the drainage system. This also serves to avoid damage from rain and snow, and to leave the yard free of obstructions. While this is a common approach that’s favored by many homeowners, there are things to consider.
Is it OK to bury downspouts?
Downspouts should be buried at least a foot deep underground. If you live in a cold climate, keep in mind that the frost line falls between 36 and 48 inches underground. In that case, you should dig down to below that depth to previent the need to thaw your gutters and downspouts during a cold snap.
Do underground downspouts freeze?
Underground downspouts will freeze when they go below the minimum temperature threshold of 20 degrees Fahrenheit. That typically happens in the dead of winter when temperatures plummet. However, if the pipes are insulated or your heating is on, your downspouts will normally function.
