Keep roof water off the foundation

A typical residential roof collects a lot of water in a short coastal rain. If that water leaves the downspout within a metre of the wall, it has only one place to go: into the backfill and toward the foundation.

The simple fix that actually works

Extend the discharge. Rigid or locked-flex extensions that carry water several metres from the wall beat decorative splash blocks almost every time.

• Aim for discharge on ground that slopes away from the house.
• Keep the end open and visible so you can see it clog or freeze.
• Avoid burying flexible pipe where roots and silt will quietly block it unless you are prepared to maintain it.

Grading still matters

Extensions help. They do not replace soil that pitches toward the wall. After winter, walk the perimeter following a rain:

• Puddles against the foundation?
• Mulch or soil washed into a trough at the wall?
• Window wells holding water?

Resetting a few centimetres of grade is unglamorous work. It prevents a surprising share of “we need a new drainage system” conversations.

Window wells and stairwells

These are roof-water magnets. Leaves and needles turn them into ponds. Clear them in fall, confirm the drain (if any) still moves water, and keep the well lip above surrounding grade where possible.

When to stop DIY

• Water inside the basement or crawl after every storm despite clear gutters and long extensions
• Evidence of hydrostatic pressure or a failed perimeter drain
• A sump that runs constantly in weather that should not stress it

Source control outside the house is still the first move. Interior fixes without it often fight the same water forever.