Central IL Downspout Extension
Downspout Extensions Keep Water Away from Your Foundation
When rainwater drains too close to your foundation, it doesn’t just disappear. It seeps into the soil, builds pressure against your basement walls, and infiltrates your home. Over time, this subtle runoff can lead to foundation cracks, mold, and costly repairs.
At Force Basements, we install and optimize downspout extensions that do more than just move water. Our team makes sure your roof runoff is directed far enough away from your home to prevent erosion, protect your foundation, and support the long-term health of your waterproofing system.
Our Downspout Extension Installation Process
What Is a Downspout Extension?
A downspout extension is an attachment added to the bottom of your gutter’s downspout. Its job is to channel water several feet away from your home, rather than letting it pool at the base of your foundation.
We install both above-ground and underground extensions to match your property layout, landscaping, and drainage needs.
1. Drainage Evaluation
We assess your current gutter system, grading, and drainage patterns to determine where water is flowing — and where it shouldn’t be.
2. Extension Design & Placement
We design a custom downspout extension layout that directs water at least 6 to 10 feet away from the home. We consider slope, yard layout, and obstructions.
3. Installation
We install either:
Above-ground extensions (rigid or flexible pipe)
Underground extensions (buried drain pipe with popup emitter or daylight exit)
We ensure a smooth water flow and minimal disruption to your yard.
4. Optional Upgrades
Pair your downspout extensions with:
Why Downspout Extensions Matter
Redirecting water away from your home is the first — and easiest — line of defense against:
Basement water seepage
Crawl space humidity
Foundation cracking or shifting
Soil erosion near the home
Mold growth and musty smells
Repeated sump pump cycling
Water damage to landscaping or walkways
Downspout extensions are low-cost, high-impact protection that can prevent major problems.
Signs You Need Downspout Extensions
Water pools near your foundation after rain
Basement or crawl space leaks during heavy storms
Mulch or soil washes out near the house
Efflorescence (white staining) on foundation walls
Mold or mildew odors indoors
Overflowing gutters or stained siding
FAQs About Downspout Extensions
How far should a downspout extension go?
We recommend at least 6–10 feet away from the foundation. More may be needed depending on yard slope and soil conditions.
Can I bury my downspout extension?
Yes — we offer buried drainpipe systems with pop-up emitters or exit points that blend into your yard and keep water flowing safely away.
Do downspout extensions really make a difference?
Absolutely. They’re one of the most cost-effective ways to prevent foundation water damage and reduce hydrostatic pressure against your walls.
Redirect Water. Protect Your Home.
A simple downspout extension could save you thousands in future water damage and repairs. Force Basements installs smart drainage solutions that protect your foundation and keep your basement dry. Schedule your free drainage inspection today.
Service Area
Force Basements proudly provides basement waterproofing, foundation repair, crawl space services, concrete repair and egress window installation to homes and businesses in Peoria, Bloomington, Champaign, Springfield, the Quad Cities, Decatur, Quincy, LaSalle/Peru and surrounding communities.