Water needs a destination

Downspouts should move roof runoff away from the foundation, sidewalks, window wells, and low spots where water can pool and freeze.

Every roofline is different

Long runs, valleys, steep pitches, and upper roofs can overload too few downspouts. A contractor should size and place outlets based on how water actually reaches the gutter.

Small changes can help

Extensions, elbows, splash blocks, and reroutes can solve many drainage issues without replacing the whole system.