The Most Boring Home Tip That Could Save You Thousands

Let’s be honest — downspout extensions might be the least exciting part of homeownership. But if you own a home, here’s one thing I know for sure: you need them.

It may not seem like a big deal, but years of water pooling around your foundation can cause serious damage — think heaving, settling, step cracking and in wet years (like 2023), even water intrusion into your crawlspace or basement.

That’s why we install downspout extensions on every single listing before it hits the market. Home inspectors love them. Dads definitely love them. And anyone who’s owned a home long enough knows they’re a simple fix that signals a well-maintained property.

Almost every time a home inspector recommends bringing in a structural engineer, the first thing that engineer mentions? Getting water away from the house. Water may have carved the Grand Canyon, but let’s not let it carve out your foundation.

So, what should you do?

• Go for 4–6 feet minimum. Most structural engineers recommend this length to properly divert water away from the home.
• Check the slope. Make sure the ground where water exits is graded away from your house — otherwise, it just flows back where it started.
• Quick & easy option: Home Depot and Amazon both carry bendable, attachable extensions you can install in minutes.
• Custom option: Work with a local gutter contractor for a clean, tailored look — or hire a landscaper to bury the extensions underground. Important: If you go this route, make sure they “daylight” (surface) at least 20 feet away from the house, and keep documentation. Home inspectors will flag buried extensions if they’re not clearly marked or explained.

Whether you’re prepping to sell or simply maintaining your investment, downspout extensions are a small, inexpensive upgrade that can prevent big problems down the line — and earn instant points with home inspectors, dads, and detail-loving real estate pros.

Need a referral for a gutter contractor or landscaper? Reach out — we’ve got you.