Last Updated on March 15, 2023 by James Redding
Gutters, downspouts, and subterranean drains (i.e. French drains) play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage. As homeowners, we often overlook the importance of these hidden heroes, leading to flooded basements, foundation deterioration, and wood decay.
Today, we’ll take a deep dive into the world of subterranean drains, and learn how they can be used to keep your property dry and damage-free. We’ll explore the ins and outs of these “hidden” drainage systems, and discover how and why they can sometimes be a solution for safeguarding your home from the perils of water damage. So, get ready to soak up all the knowledge you need to keep your property safe and dry!
Why Would a Gutter System Drain Underground?
During a downpour, your gutters collect rainwater from your roof and channel it to the ground. Without proper gutter downspout extensions or subterranean drains, water may pool near your home.
As you can see below, it’s not pretty:
This can cause a myriad of issues, such as:
- Seeping into the foundation, compromising its structural integrity
- Damaging stairs, patios, and decks
- Harming plants, flowers, mulch beds, and other landscaping features
- Dampness in basements
Installing gutters with underground drainage can often resolve these problems where downspout extensions are not suitable.
Another reason for considering underground drains is the potential hazard posed by gutters that discharge water onto or near walkways and driveways. When rainwater accumulates in these areas, it can create slippery surfaces and increase the risk of accidents. By directing the water underground and away from areas with foot traffic, you can effectively mitigate the chances of slip and fall incidents.
Furthermore, there are cases where gutter systems may require a more complex approach, involving underground connections. This can help to maintain the integrity of your home’s exterior and landscaping by eliminating the need for excavating driveways and walkways.
Homeowners who opt for seamless gutter installation often do so to achieve a more efficient and visually appealing gutter system. These systems are designed to minimize leaks and blend in seamlessly with the home’s exterior. However, even with seamless gutters, proper water management is crucial to prevent damage to your home’s foundation and landscaping.
With strategic use of underground pipes, you can ensure that your gutter system functions efficiently without disrupting the aesthetic or functional aspects of your property.
In South Carolina, where the climate can bring its fair share of rainfall, homeowners must be particularly vigilant about addressing water-related issues on their properties. Installing underground drains, or taking other preventative measures to stop water from pooling next to homes, can often resolve these problems and better protect your property in the Palmetto State.
Identifying the Need for Subterranean Drain Cleaning
If you’re wondering whether your underground gutter drains need cleaning, keep an eye out for these telltale signs:
- Water accumulation in your yard or near the installed underground gutter drain
- Rainwater spilling over the gutters even after thorough cleaning
- Visible obstructions at the drain opening
By keeping an eye on the signs of inadequate rainwater drainage, you can protect your property and keep your home safe and dry.
Holy City Gutterworks: Your Go-To Gutter Installation & Repair Experts
If you’re in the greater Charleston, SC area, Holy City Gutterworks can help you keep your property dry and damage-free. As a trusted local business with its roots in Mount Pleasant, we have built a strong reputation for gutter installation and repair, as well as seamless and copper gutters. Our goal is to ensure that your property stays well-protected from the elements—come rain or shine.
Don’t let gutter problems rain on your parade. Give us a call at 843-352-9269 or click here to contact us for a free estimate with no sales pitch.
