How to Identify and Fix Gutter Runoff Issues in Landscapes

It Starts at the Roof — and Ends in Your Yard

One of the most overlooked sources of landscape water damage is your own roof. Improperly managed gutter runoff causes foundation cracks, standing water, erosion, and dead turf — all from a single downspout. Here’s how we identify runoff issues and redirect that water safely through your landscape.

1. Common Signs of Gutter Runoff Problems

You may have an issue if you notice:

• Downspouts dumping water right at your home’s base
  
  

• Mulch washing away after storms
  
  

• Deep ruts forming in grass or gravel under gutters
  
  

• Cracks appearing in sidewalks or your foundation
  
  

• Saturated, soggy soil near downspout corners
  
  

These problems usually appear within the first 5–10 feet from your house.

2. Why It’s Especially Important in Colorado

• Clay-heavy soil drains poorly, causing pooling
  
  

• Snowmelt leads to prolonged wet conditions
  
  

• Heavy spring rains overwhelm splash blocks
  
  

• Expansive soils cause heaving and cracking near foundations
  
  

Because soil won’t absorb the water fast enough, proper redirection is essential.

3. Solutions That Actually Work

Buried Downspout Extensions

• Carry water 10–20 feet away underground
  
  

• Use solid pipe with proper slope
  
  

• Empty into pop-up emitters, drywells, or daylight outlets
  
  

Catch Basins & Surface Drains

• Collect excess runoff in turf, planting beds, or patios
  
  

• Connect to drainage systems or French drains
  
  

Dry Creek Beds

• Decorative gravel channels that slow and disperse water
  
  

• Blend naturally into xeriscaped or natural yards
  
  

• Prevent erosion while handling overflow
  
  

Swales or Shallow Trenches

• Graded shallow channels to direct water without visible pipes
  
  

• Great for larger yards with open drainage zones
  
  

4. What to Avoid

• Relying only on splash blocks—they rarely move water far enough
  
  

• Above-ground corrugated pipe (trip hazard and prone to freezing)
  
  

• Letting runoff flow over sidewalks or driveways (creates dangerous ice patches in winter)
  
  

We design drainage systems that perform reliably year-round, especially through Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles.

5. Maintenance Matters

• Clean gutters each season
  
  

• Inspect discharge areas for erosion or clogs
  
  

• Make sure pop-up emitters aren’t buried or blocked
  
  

• Watch for turf sinkholes, which may signal pipe issues
  
  

Most systems are “install and forget,” but regular seasonal checks keep them working well for years.

Related Services:

[Drainage Solutions]

[Grading & Soil Preparation]

[French Drains & Dry Creek Beds]

[Full Yard Renovations]

Tired of Water Pooling at Your Foundation or Washing Out Your Yard?

We’ll inspect your runoff, map the fix, and install a clean, functional solution that protects your home and landscape.

[Request a Quote]

[Call (720) 306-9123]