The gutter should be installed as close to the shingles as possible; no more than 2 or 3 inches. If the gutter distance is more than 3 inches, the rain will run off the roof and won’t drain properly.

How far from end of gutter should downspout be?

Install at least 1 downspout for every 40 linear feet of gutter. This distance is adequate for most homes as it can allow water to drain into a downspout even during heavy downpours without overflowing.

Where should downspouts be positioned?

Where should gutter downspouts be placed?

  1. The general rule is that there needs to be a downspout for every 40 feet of the gutter. …
  2. Downspouts need to be emptied at least 10 feet away from the house.

How high should downspouts be?

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.

How far from house should downspouts drain?

Therefore, gutters should drain properly. Gutters should drain water to at least 4-6 feet but preferably 10 feet away from the house. Ensure you connect the gutter securely to the eave of the roof. Additionally, each downspout should drain a maximum of 35 feet of gutter.

How do you layout a downspout?

Plan Where the Gutters and Downspouts Will Go



Downspouts are generally placed on both ends of a row of gutters, but a long row may need several downspouts in between. On a multi-story home, the downspouts need to connect with lower gutters to create a maze of drainage around the house.

How should downspouts be installed?

Screw a downspout elbow to the outlet tube protruding down from the gutter. Hold another elbow against the house and cut a piece of downspout to fit between the two elbows. Use needlenosed pliers to slightly crimp the elbow to fit into the downspout (as shown). Fasten the parts together with pop rivets or screws.

How far should drain pipe be 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.

Should you bury your 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.

How far should gutter extend past roof?

The gutter should be installed as close to the shingles as possible; no more than 2 or 3 inches. If the gutter distance is more than 3 inches, the rain will run off the roof and won’t drain properly.

Where should gutter downspouts go?

You’ll likely want your downspouts to run down the side or back of your house. Downspouts come in a variety of colors so they can match your siding and won’t be so noticeable if they end up closer to the front of the house. 5. Downspouts should extend 4-6 feet away from your home.

What is downspout code?

Allow 1 square inch of downspout cross-section for every 100 square feet of roof area. Place downspouts at least 20 feet apart but no more than 50 feet apart.

What do you put at the bottom of a downspout?

Buried Drain Pipe



We suggest topping the pipe off with a pop up emitter. Before you know it, you’ll be all set for the next downpour. If you don’t want to go through the hassle off digging, you’re in luck! There are a few more methods to extend downspouts above ground besides the aluminum extension.

How deep should downspout drains be buried?

The trench must be at least 10-inches-deep, but be aware that in cold-weather regions the pipe occasionally will clog with ice during periods of heavy precipitation.

Can you use PVC pipe for downspouts?


Quote from Youtube video: I'm going to show you. What corrugated pipe what this is it's all the asphalt that comes off your shingles on your roof. And you can see how much is in there. And what happens is that comes down off

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.

Should I take downspouts off in winter?

There is typically no need to remove your gutter downspouts in winter. It’s best to leave them attached so that they can safely direct melted snow and ice to the ground where it can drain away. However, it can be beneficial to remove downspout extensions that lie on the ground.

How do I keep my downspouts from freezing?

Wrap your downspouts in heating tape to automatically heat the downspout and clear or prevent freezing. Install gutter guards to prevent large chunks of snow, ice, and other debris from entering gutters and downspouts, where they can create blockages.