Foundation Protection
Downspout Extensions
Protect Your Foundation from Roof Runoff
Underground downspout extensions carry roof water far from your foundation. The most cost-effective drainage upgrade for DFW homes.
Get Free Quote 
Warning Signs
Splash blocks not directing water away
Erosion at downspout discharge
Water pooling near foundation
Wet basement or crawlspace
Downspouts discharge against fence
Visible foundation staining
Buried vs. Surface Extensions
Understanding your options
Recommended
Buried Underground
Permanent solution
Advantages
- Invisible - preserves curb appeal
- Can't be damaged by mowers
- Extends 15-30+ feet from foundation
- No freezing issues (below frost line)
Disadvantages
- Higher installation cost
- Excavation required
- Harder to inspect/clean
Verdict: Best long-term investment for foundation protection
Above-Ground
Quick solution
Advantages
- Lower cost
- Easy to install
- Simple to inspect
- Can be relocated
Disadvantages
- Visible on lawn
- Trip hazard
- Damaged by mowers
- Limited extension distance
Verdict: Temporary fix or budget option
Why Underground Extensions
Massive Water Volume
A 2,000 sq ft roof produces 1,250 gallons in 1" rain
Foundation Protection
Moves water 15-30 feet from foundation walls
No Maintenance
Solid pipe runs require zero annual maintenance
Lawn Preservation
No more erosion channels or soggy spots
How We Install
1
Inspect Downspouts
Assess current gutter system and identify best connection points
2
Plan Discharge
Determine optimal endpoint - pop-up, dry well, or street
3
Excavate Trench
Dig path from foundation to discharge at proper slope
4
Install Pipe
Connect 4" solid PVC with proper adapters
5
Restore Landscape
Backfill trench and replace sod
Local Requirements
Downspout extensions rarely need permits
Dallas
No Permit Needed
Fort Worth
No Permit Needed
Plano
No Permit Needed
Garland
No Permit Needed
Irving
No Permit Needed
Arlington
No Permit Needed
Frisco
No Permit Needed
McKinney
No Permit Needed
Street discharge may require curb cut permit in some areas.
Downspout Extension FAQs
Minimum 10 feet from foundation, ideally 15-20 feet. We go as far as needed based on your property slope.
We call 811 before every job and work around existing lines. Most utilities are deeper than our trenches.
We install below frost line (12" in DFW) and use solid pipe that drains completely, preventing freeze damage.
Yes, we often combine 2-3 downspouts into a single discharge run for efficiency.
Move Roof Water Where It Belongs
The most cost-effective foundation protection upgrade.
Schedule Free AssessmentLast updated: