Central IL Downspout Extension
Downspout Extension – Keep Water Away from Your Foundation
One of the most overlooked causes of basement leaks, crawl space moisture, and foundation damage is water draining too close to your home. A simple downspout extension can make all the difference.
At Force Basements, we professionally install and optimize downspout extensions to redirect roof runoff away from your foundation — protecting your home from water intrusion, soil erosion, and long-term structural issues
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:
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Above-ground extensions (rigid or flexible pipe)
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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:
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Basement water seepage
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Crawl space humidity
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Foundation cracking or shifting
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Soil erosion near the home
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Mold growth and musty smells
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Repeated sump pump cycling
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Water damage to landscaping or walkways
Downspout extensions are low-cost, high-impact protection that can prevent major problems.
Signs You Need Downspout Extensions
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Water pools near your foundation after rain
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Basement or crawl space leaks during heavy storms
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Mulch or soil washes out near the house
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Efflorescence (white staining) on foundation walls
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Mold or mildew odors indoors
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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.
