Directing gutters to the right place
Why?
Heavy rainfalls send large quantities of wastewater to the sewer system in a very short time. When heavy rains overwhelm the sewer system, this leads to a range of issues: localized flooding, untreated water spilling into bodies of water, and sewer backups.
By redirecting rainwater from your gutters onto permeable surfaces like grass, you take part in preventing the sewer system from overflowing and avoiding river pollution.
Do’s
Do send water towards permeable surfaces, or install a rainwater recovery barrel, making sure that overflow is directed toward a permeable surface.
Do extend output 1.5m away from foundations to prevent erosion.
Don’ts
Don’t connect your gutters to a foundation drain.
Don’t direct water towards sewers.