Splash Block Guide
A splash block is an important part of any home’s gutter system and is a great way to help protect your house from water damage. A splash block is a rectangular block at the bottom of a gutter downspout that helps disperse the water away from your home’s foundation, rather than allowing it to collect in one place and cause potential flooding.
Splash blocks are structures placed around the exterior of a building in order to prevent water damage. They act as a barrier, deflecting rainwater away from the walls and foundation of a house or other structure. Generally made of concrete, they come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can be customized to fit the needs of any given property.
Do I Need a Splash Block?
The short answer is yes. Although splash blocks are not required for every home, it’s important to consider them if you live in an area with frequent rainfall. Without them, rainwater can collect around your foundation and eventually lead to structural damage or flooding. To protect your home from such disasters, splash blocks are essential.
Purpose
The primary purpose of a splash block is to redirect rainwater away from the base of your house, protecting it from flooding and potentially serious water damage. The splash block also gives the water somewhere to go rather than pooling around the foundation, which can cause erosion or other structural problems. Additionally, having a splash block prevents rainwater runoff from entering the street or sidewalk, helping to reduce potential hazards for pedestrians.
Where Should I Place Splash Blocks?
Splash blocks should be positioned near the downspouts of your rain gutter system. This will ensure that the water is directed away from your foundation in an efficient manner. Placing splash blocks too far away from the downspouts will result in the water being deflected away from the house, but not necessarily directed away from it.
Types of Splash Blocks
Splash blocks are a great way to protect your home from water damage caused by rain and run-off. They come in different types and sizes, so it is important to determine which one suits your needs best.
Pre-Cast Concrete Splash Blocks
The most common type of splash block is the pre-cast concrete variety. These are usually available in two standard sizes and come with a hole in the center, making them easy to install wherever you need them. Pre-cast concrete splash blocks are strong and durable, providing lasting protection against water and moisture.
Plastic Splash Blocks
Plastic splash blocks are lightweight and easier to move around than the pre-cast version. They can be used in smaller areas, and tend to be less expensive than concrete options. However, plastic splash blocks may not stand up against extreme weather conditions as well as their more robust counterparts.
Stone Splash Blocks
Stone splash blocks are made from natural materials such as marble or granite, giving them a unique style that will add aesthetic appeal to any property. As with pre-cast concrete splash blocks, stone varieties are typically installed with a hole in the center. Stone blocks are sturdier than plastic ones, and will provide greater protection against severe weather events.
Splash Block Installation
Installing a splash block is fairly simple and requires minimal supplies. First, make sure that the ground is level where you plan to install the splash block. If not, you may need to dig out a channel or use extra soil or gravel to ensure it is flush with the ground. Then attach the splash block to the end of your gutter downspout using either screws or silicone caulk. Finally, run some tests with your hose or during rainfall to see if water is draining properly away from your home’s foundation.
No matter what type of splash block you choose for your property, it’s important to ensure that it is properly installed. Following manufacturers’ instructions and consulting with a professional installer can help to ensure that your splash block functions as intended, protecting your property from the elements.
Conclusion
A splash block is an essential part of any home’s gutter system, providing an effective way to divert water away from the foundation and prevent damaging floods. Installing a splash block is relatively simple and inexpensive, and can save you money in costly repairs and replacements down the line.