Concrete Downspout Splash Block at Lowe's: Buyer's Guide
Protecting Your Foundation with a Concrete Downspout Splash Block from Lowe's
Managing roof runoff is one of the most critical aspects of home maintenance. When heavy rain pours off your roof, it collects in your gutters and dumps out of your downspouts right next to your exterior walls. Without proper redirection, this water pools around your foundation, leading to basement leaks, soil erosion, and costly structural damage. A simple yet highly effective fix is installing a concrete downspout splash block from Lowe's to channel water safely away from your house.
While splash blocks come in various materials—including plastic and resin—concrete remains the gold standard for durability and longevity. This guide covers what you need to know about finding, selecting, and installing a concrete splash block for your drainage needs.
Why Choose Concrete Over Plastic?
When shopping for gutter accessories, you will typically find options made from molded plastic, galvanized metal, or heavy-duty concrete. While plastic blocks are lightweight and inexpensive, they have notable drawbacks.
- Wind Resistance: Plastic splash blocks are notoriously lightweight. A strong gust of wind or a heavy surge of water can easily shift them out of place, leaving your foundation exposed.
- Longevity: Plastic degrades over time under harsh UV rays, becoming brittle and cracking within a few seasons. Concrete, on the other hand, withstands extreme heat, freezing temperatures, and intense sun for decades.
- Aesthetics: Concrete offers a classic, neutral look that blends naturally into landscaping beds, stone mulch, or grass compared to shiny or faded plastic.
Choosing a concrete downspout splash block means you install it once and rarely have to worry about it shifting or deteriorating.
What to Expect at Lowe's
Lowe’s home improvement stores typically stock concrete landscape and drainage products in their outdoor garden center, often near pavers, retaining wall blocks, and corrugated drainage pipes. Because concrete items are heavy, they are usually displayed on wooden pallets rather than standard indoor shelving.
Standard Sizes and Weights
Most concrete splash blocks sold at home improvement retailers follow a standard sizing convention. When browsing inventory, you will generally encounter:
Video: Heavy duty downspout splash block to save your lawn!
- Standard Residential Size: Typically measuring around 11 to 12 inches wide by 24 inches long.
- Weight: Expect a standard concrete block to weigh between 25 and 40 pounds. This substantial weight ensures that rushing rainwater will not push the block out of alignment.
- Design Features: Most blocks feature a sloped interior channel that directs water outward, and a textured or slightly depressed end to dissipate the velocity of the falling water.
Pricing and Availability
Concrete splash blocks are remarkably budget-friendly. Prices typically range from $10 to $20 per unit, depending on the exact dimensions and decorative finish. Because of their weight, buying them online for home delivery can sometimes incur high freight charges, so checking local in-store pickup availability on the Lowe's website is usually the most cost-effective approach.
How to Properly Install a Concrete Splash Block
Buying the right drainage product is only half the battle. Proper installation ensures that water flows away from your home instead of pooling in a new spot just a few feet further out.
- Clear the Area: Remove any debris, mulch, or overgrown grass directly beneath your downspout.
- Level the Ground: Dig out a shallow trench so the splash block can sit flush or slightly sloped away from the foundation. If the ground slopes toward your house, water will run backward against the foundation wall, defeating the purpose of the block.
- Position the Block: Place the narrower end of the splash block directly under the downspout opening. The water should hit the upper portion of the block's channel and flow outward.
- Test the Drainage: Pour a bucket of water down your gutter or use a garden hose to test the flow. Ensure the water exits the end of the block and moves safely away from the structure.
- Stabilize the Edges: Pack soil, gravel, or mulch around the sides of the concrete block to lock it firmly into place.
Enhancing Your Drainage Setup
While a concrete downspout splash block is an excellent first line of defense, some homes require a more comprehensive water management strategy. If your roof drains massive volumes of water, a simple splash block might still saturate your yard.
Consider pairing your splash block with a downspout extension. An extension physically moves the discharge point several feet further away from the foundation. You can rest a rigid plastic or metal extension directly on top of your concrete splash block to carry the water past flower beds and onto open lawn areas.
If you notice persistent standing water or dampness in your basement despite using splash blocks, consult a professional landscaper or drainage specialist. You may need to install an underground PVC drain line that funnels water out to the street or a designated dry well.
Final Thoughts
Protecting your home's foundation doesn't have to be complicated or expensive. A sturdy concrete downspout splash block from Lowe's provides a heavy-duty, low-maintenance solution to everyday roof runoff. By selecting a durable concrete unit, leveling the ground properly, and directing water safely away from your exterior walls, you can prevent costly water damage and keep your home safe for years to come.
