How Many Downspouts Should I Have on My House?

When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, your eavestrough system is only as good as its downspouts. These vertical pipes carry water from the gutters safely away from your foundation. But how many downspouts does your house actually need?

Why Downspouts Matter

Downspouts play a critical role in preventing foundation cracks, basement flooding, roof damage, and landscaping erosion. Even the best eavestrough system can’t work properly without the right number of downspouts directing water flow.
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The General Rule of Thumb

Most experts recommend one downspout for every 20 to 40 feet of eavestrough. However, the right number can depend on several factors, including:
 
  • Roof size and slope – Larger or steeper roofs shed more water, requiring additional downspouts.
     
  • Rainfall in your area – In Ottawa, heavy rains and snowmelt make extra drainage essential.
     
  • Home design – Complex rooflines with multiple corners or valleys often need more downspouts.
     
  • Landscaping and foundation layout – Downspouts should direct water away from areas where pooling could damage your home.
     

Signs You May Not Have Enough Downspouts

  • Water spilling over the edges of your gutters
     
  • Pooling water around your foundation
     
  • Frequent basement dampness or leaks
     
  • Eavestroughs sagging under excess water load
     
If you’re seeing these issues, your system may need more downspouts—or possibly a full eavestrough replacement.

Why Proper Installation Matters

It’s not just about how many downspouts you have—it’s also about placement. Poorly positioned downspouts can cause as many problems as not having enough. That’s why professional installation is key to protecting your home.

The Bronson Johnson Advantage

At Bronson Johnson Seamless Eavestroughs, we design and install systems tailored to your home. From the right number of downspouts to seamless aluminum eavestroughs built for Ottawa’s harsh weather, our solutions keep water moving safely away from your home.
 

Get Your Free Estimate Today!

Don’t wait for water damage to tell you there’s a problem. Contact Bronson Johnson Seamless Eavestroughs today for a free estimate and get a custom eavestrough system that protects your Ottawa home year-round.

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