Having water around your house’s foundation is never a good idea. Storms and frequent rains can damage your garden and home. And while many properties have downspouts carrying water from the roots to the ground, without adding an extension, water might remain stagnant. Luckily, there are ways to eliminate the issue.
One of them is using downspout rock drains. But do they work? And what can you do to make the most out of them? You have landed in the right place to get answers to these questions!
What Is A Downspout Rock Drain?
You may know them as rock downspout catch basins, but the substance doesn’t change. These systems are excellent ways to help you redirect water away from your house. You can bury them for a cleaner look and use them to direct the water at least 15 inches away from your house’s foundations.
Rock systems are excellent alternatives to PVC since gravel can support considerable weight on most soil types and allow water to pass through it with fewer problems. While there are many ways to direct water from your house away, a rock drain can help you do so with style. Plus, it is a long-lasting solution.
Additionally, whether you decide to bury your downspout or leave it on the surface, it won’t matter. Indeed, rocks can make the system more appealing. But what are the benefits and drawbacks of a downspout rock drain? Jump to the following section to find out!
Benefits of Downspout Rock Drain
As we mentioned before, rocks are excellent materials for drains. Besides being ideal for directing water away, they can also prevent weeds, shrubs, and soil mounds. Their composition prevents the accumulation of water, minimizing the spread of pests.
Overall, a rock drain makes the place tidier and better organized. Additionally, when installed underground, it will prevent erosion. Plus, it will absorb the heat and allow the water to move faster, especially during the winter (where there can be ice).
Drawbacks of Downspout Rock Drain
To begin with, you must choose a suitable location for your water discharge area. You can use large rocks and create a natural-looking landscape feature for better results. However, they might be challenging to find. And if you use gravel, you might slow down the flow of water without adequately directing the liquid where you need to.
One of the worst things about installing such a drainage system is that it will need regular maintenance. Without it, your drainage will look unappealing and messy in a few days, especially if you live in a rainy region.
You’ll need some planning before installing a downspout rock drain. Besides making it far enough from your property’s foundation, you must also consider ways to stop washout. But, with that said, we still think it is an excellent option for most homeowners. And if you are curious to learn about making one, keep reading!
How to Make A Rock Downspout Basin?
To make a rock basin, you must use thick underlying material to catch the water underground. Also, there must be some elevation to remove the need for plastic tubes and pipes. With gravity, the water won’t need too much extra support.
Remember to add borders around the area to avoid causing issues to the drainage. Also, ensure the water disperses at least 15 feet from your house foundations. Keep in mind that you can also use other water collection methods. Making a rock basin isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, so ensure you explore other options.
Related Article: 6 Ways to Stop Grass Growing Through Rocks