Where the Water Goes Matters
Gutters may not be the most exciting part of a house, but they serve an important purpose. They collect rainwater from the roof and help direct it away from the foundation.
When that water ends up in the wrong place, it can contribute to basement leaks, foundation moisture, erosion, and damage to the home.
Here's what Michigan buyers and homeowners should know.
How Do Gutters Work?
Gutters collect water running off the roof. Downspouts carry that water to the ground, where it should continue away from the house.
A good system needs three things:
Gutters that collect water without overflowing.
Downspouts that carry water down from the roof.
Proper drainage that moves water away from the foundation.
The system is only as good as where the water ends up.
How Far Should Downspouts Extend?
The U.S. Department of Energy recommends directing aboveground downspout discharge at least 5 feet from the foundation, onto ground that continues sloping away.
A short splash block may not be enough if water collects beside the house.
Extensions, underground solid drainpipes, or properly designed drainage systems can help. Make sure water isn't being directed onto a neighboring property or into a prohibited drainage connection.
What Is Proper Yard Grading?
Grading refers to the slope of the ground around your home.
Ideally, soil should slope away from the foundation. A common building recommendation is approximately 6 inches of fall over the first 10 feet.
Watch for:
Low spots beside foundation walls.
Mulch beds that trap water against the house.
Driveways or sidewalks sloping toward the foundation.
Soil that has settled since the house was built.
Adding soil may help in some situations, but don't bury siding, brick weep holes, or other necessary openings.
What About Underground Downspouts?
Some homes have downspouts connected to buried pipes.
These systems can work well, but they can also become clogged, crushed, or disconnected.
Find out where the pipe actually discharges. A buried pipe doesn't automatically mean the water is being carried somewhere useful.
Roof drainage should not be connected directly to perforated foundation drain tile.
What Should Buyers Look For?
During a showing or inspection, walk around the outside of the house.
Look for overflowing gutters, disconnected downspouts, standing water, erosion, and staining near the foundation.
Inside, check the basement or crawlspace for moisture, water staining, and musty odors.
These signs don't automatically mean there's a major problem, but they deserve investigation.
Simple Maintenance That Helps
Clean gutters and check downspouts regularly.
Make sure extensions remain connected.
Watch where water travels during rainfall.
Correct low spots and drainage problems.
Keep drainage outlets clear of leaves and debris.
For more information, see the U.S. Department of Energy's guide to gutters and downspouts.
You can also explore my Home Buying Resources for more guidance on evaluating a property.
A little attention to drainage today can help prevent a much bigger problem later.