Rain Conductors

Managing roof runoff correctly protects foundations, driveways, and landscaping—while keeping storm water out of sanitary sewer lines. John Shelton Plumbing designs, installs, and repairs rain conductors and downspout drainage systems for residential and commercial properties throughout the Alle-Kiski Valley. As a result, we route water away from structures, reduce basement seepage, and help you avoid cross-connections that can trigger failures during Dye Testing or heavy rains.

What We Install & Repair

• Downspout tie-ins: We direct roof runoff to approved storm drains, daylight, or splash blocks away from the foundation so water actually leaves the problem area.
• Buried conductor lines: We install low-profile rain conductors that move water to daylight, catch basins, or storm systems instead of letting it collect near the home.
• Drainage accessories: We add leaf diverters, cleanouts, and backwater protections to create maintainable systems that you can flush or Hydro Jet as needed.
• Problem-area fixes: We correct pooling yards, soggy planters, and driveway icing caused by poorly placed discharge points.

Why Proper Rain Conductor Routing Matters

• Foundation protection: By keeping water away from footings, you reduce seepage and help prevent cracks.
• Basement health: In addition, good drainage lowers hydrostatic pressure that leads to dampness and musty odors.
• Driveway & walk safety: Proper routing prevents runoff that freezes into slick ice sheets during winter weather.
• Compliance: Finally, you avoid improper tie-ins that fail dye tests and overload sanitary sewers.

Our Approach to Rain Conductors & Downspout Drainage

Assessment & Mapping

First, we review roof area, downspout locations, grades, and discharge options. When underground routing already exists, we can verify paths with Electronic Line Locating and, where appropriate, assess interior pipe condition with a Sewer Camera Inspection. This step gives you a clear picture of how water currently moves through and away from the property.

Clean Routing & Discharge

Next, we use durable piping and correct slopes to deliver water to daylight, storm systems, or approved dispersion areas. We also add cleanouts and access points so maintenance stays simple, and we can later flush or Hydro Jet buried lines if debris or scale begins to build up. As a result, your rain conductors remain functional season after season.

Surface Restoration

After the underground work is complete, we compact trenches and restore surfaces neatly. We discuss options in advance for lawns, beds, pavers, or concrete transitions, and we coordinate with our Excavation team when more extensive grading or repair will give a better long-term result. This way, you end up with both better drainage and a clean finish.

Signs Your System Needs Attention

• Water pooling near the foundation after storms instead of draining away
• Downspouts that terminate at the foundation or right at the driveway edge
• Basement dampness, seasonal seepage, or recurring musty odors
• Overflowing gutters or discharges that regularly erode mulch and soil

Maintenance Tips

• First, keep gutters and strainers clear of leaves and debris, especially in the fall.
• Next, schedule periodic flushing—pair this with Hydro Jetting for longer buried conductor lines.
• Also confirm that discharge points aren’t blocked by landscaping, mulch, or snow.
• For ongoing issues, consider an annual check alongside other Sewer Services if you’ve had drainage or seepage problems in the past.

Related Services

• Sewer Services – cleaning, repairs, and replacements for sewer and storm lines
• Dye Testing – ensure downspouts and rain conductors aren’t tied into sanitary lines
• Line Locating – map buried conductors and storm routes before digging
• Excavation – properly graded trenches and neat restoration for larger drainage projects