Gutter Company Drainage and Water Management

Question 1

What is the purpose of a splash block placed at the base of a downspout?

Accepted Answer

To disperse water and direct it away from the foundation

Answer

Splash blocks channel water away from the foundation and disperse the force of the downspout discharge to prevent soil erosion.

Question 2

What is a French drain and when is it recommended in conjunction with gutter downspouts?

Accepted Answer

A trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that redirects groundwater away from the foundation

Answer

A French drain is a sub-surface drainage system that collects and redirects downspout discharge and groundwater well away from the home's foundation.

Question 3

What grading specification around a home's foundation helps downspout water run away rather than toward the structure?

Accepted Answer

A positive slope of at least 6 inches drop over 10 feet away from the foundation

Answer

Building codes and drainage best practices call for at least a 6-inch drop over 10 feet away from the foundation to ensure surface water drains away from the structure.

Question 4

What is a rain barrel and what is its role in a downspout system?

Accepted Answer

A decorative barrel placed under a downspout to collect rainwater for reuse in irrigation

Answer

Rain barrels capture and store roof runoff from downspouts for later use in garden irrigation, reducing water consumption and managing stormwater.

Question 5

What is a downspout diverter used for?

Accepted Answer

To direct water either into a rain barrel or away from the home when the barrel is full

Answer

A diverter automatically routes water into a rain barrel until it is full, then diverts overflow away from the foundation.

Gutter Company Practice Test

Gutter Company Practice Test

Gutter Company Drainage and Water Management