The Essential Guide to Rain Diverters and Splash Blocks: Why Lockwood Precast Concrete Stands Out
- montanaterrazzo
- Oct 21
- 4 min read
Rain diverters and splash blocks are unsung heroes in managing stormwater around your home or property. These simple yet effective tools direct rainwater away from your foundation, preventing erosion, water damage, and costly repairs. In this blog post, we’ll explore the uses of rain diverters and splash blocks, and why Lockwood Precast concrete options offer superior benefits compared to alternatives like plastic or metal.
What Are Rain Diverters and Splash Blocks?
Rain diverters and splash blocks work together to manage water flow from your roof’s gutter system:
Rain Diverters: These are installed on or within downspouts to redirect rainwater away from your home’s foundation, typically toward a splash block, drainage system, or safe runoff area.
Splash Blocks: Placed at the base of downspouts, splash blocks disperse the force of falling water, guiding it away from your home to prevent soil erosion and pooling.
Together, they protect your property by ensuring rainwater is channeled effectively, reducing the risk of structural damage and landscaping issues.
Uses of Rain Diverters and Splash Blocks
Preventing Foundation Damage
Rainwater pooling near your foundation can seep into basements or weaken structural integrity. Diverters and splash blocks guide water away, keeping your foundation dry and stable.
Reducing Soil Erosion
Uncontrolled water flow can wash away soil, damaging landscaping and exposing plant roots. Splash blocks spread water evenly, minimizing erosion and preserving your yard’s appearance.
Protecting Siding and Exterior Walls
Water splashing back from the ground can stain or damage siding. Diverters and splash blocks direct water away, keeping your exterior walls clean and intact.
Supporting Sustainable Water Management
By directing water to rain gardens, barrels, or permeable surfaces, these tools promote eco-friendly practices, reducing runoff and supporting groundwater recharge.
Enhancing Property Aesthetics
Well-designed splash blocks and diverters can blend seamlessly with your landscaping, adding both function and visual appeal.
Why Choose Lockwood Precast Concrete Splash Blocks?
While splash blocks and diverters come in materials like plastic, metal, or rubber, precast concrete offers distinct advantages that make it the preferred choice for many homeowners and property managers.
Durability and Longevity
Precast concrete is incredibly robust, withstanding harsh weather conditions, UV exposure, and heavy water flow without cracking or degrading. Unlike plastic, which can become brittle over time, or metal, which may rust, concrete splash blocks can last for decades with minimal maintenance.
Superior Stability
Concrete’s weight ensures splash blocks stay firmly in place, even during heavy downpours. Lightweight plastic or rubber blocks can shift or float away, requiring frequent repositioning.
Customizable Aesthetics
Precast concrete splash blocks can be molded into various shapes, sizes, and finishes to complement your property’s style. Whether you prefer a natural stone look or a sleek modern design, concrete offers versatility that plastic or metal can’t match.
Eco-Friendly Option
Concrete is often made with locally sourced materials and can be recycled at the end of its life cycle. Additionally, its longevity reduces the need for frequent replacements, making it a sustainable choice compared to plastic, which may contribute to landfill waste.
Cost-Effectiveness
While precast concrete splash blocks may have a higher upfront cost than plastic, their durability and low maintenance make them more cost-effective over time. You won’t need to replace them as often, saving money in the long run.
Enhanced Water Dispersion
Concrete splash blocks can be designed with channels or slopes to optimize water flow, ensuring efficient dispersion and reducing the risk of pooling. This precision is harder to achieve with flimsier materials like plastic.
Comparing Lockwood Precast Concrete to Other Materials
Plastic Splash Blocks: Lightweight and inexpensive, plastic blocks are prone to cracking, fading, and shifting during heavy rain. They often lack the aesthetic appeal and durability of concrete.
Metal Splash Blocks: While durable, metal blocks can rust or corrode, especially in humid or coastal environments. They’re also more expensive than concrete and may dent under impact.
Rubber Splash Blocks: Flexible and easy to install, rubber blocks degrade quickly under UV exposure and may not stay in place during intense storms.
Tips for Choosing and Installing Precast Concrete Splash Blocks
Select the Right Size: Ensure the splash block is long and wide enough to handle the volume of water from your downspout. A standard size is about 24–36 inches long and 10–12 inches wide.
Check for Proper Slope: Place the splash block on a slightly sloped surface to guide water away from your home effectively.
Match Your Aesthetic: Choose a design that complements your landscaping, whether it’s a textured finish or a decorative pattern.
Combine with Diverters: Pair splash blocks with rain diverters for maximum water control, directing flow to safe areas like rain gardens or drainage systems.
Maintain Regularly: Clear debris from splash blocks to ensure unobstructed water flow, especially after storms.
Conclusion
Rain diverters and Lockwood Precast concrete splash blocks are essential tools for protecting your home and landscape from water damage. While various materials are available, precast concrete splash blocks stand out for their durability, stability, aesthetic versatility, and eco-friendly properties. By investing in high-quality precast concrete products, you can ensure long-term protection for your property while enhancing its curb appeal. Next time you’re upgrading your gutter system, consider the unmatched benefits of precast concrete splash blocks—your foundation (and wallet) will thank you!
Comments