Roof Downspout Disconnection

This reduces the amount of directly connected impervious area in a drainage area.

Roof downspout disconnection.

Some downspouts cannot be disconnected. Downspouts may also be connected to a pipe in the ground that connects directly to the sanitary sewer or storm drain system. Use similar downspout material or use adapters to change to plastic pipe. If necessary use needle nosed pliers to crimp the old downspout pipe so it slides into the new elbow.

Description simple downspout disconnection involves directing flow from roof downspouts to a pervious area that drains away from the building see figure 4 3 1. Downspout disconnection is the process of separating roof downspouts from the sewer system and redirecting roof runoff onto pervious surfaces most commonly a lawn. Water is then redirected to flow into a rain barrel or to a lawn or garden where it can soak into the ground. During heavy rain every downspout on your home can send 12 gallons of water a minute to the sewer system which increases the risk of basement backups and sewer overflows.

This prevents stormwater from directly entering the storm sewer system or flowing across a connected impervious surface such as a driveway that drains to a storm sewer. Disconnect and help keep excess water out of sanitary sewers.