DIY: Add a Downspout Diverter for Extra Rain Collection and Moisture Control

Making your own downspout diverter is not only a cost-effective way of harvesting rainwater for use in the home and garden, but is also within the reach of most novice DIYers. To get started you need two pieces of pipe, of the same length and size as the existing pipe the diverter will slot into. You can then create an inverted ‘V’ shape by cutting a semicircle into eachpipe and binding them together using a welder. You should then add a further piece of pipe to the bottom of the diverter so that water is split between the chosen destinations, such as a drain or rain barrel.

The next step is to locate the position of the downspout diverter and cut away enough of the pipe that the diverter will fit in securely and can still be connected to the top. When the diverter is slotted in, seal it by welding and then add a few joints that screw into the wall and secure the pipe. In order to test the diverter, put some water into the gutter and make sure that the water is split evenly between the drain and the rain barrel.

For added safety, you could also attach a filter to the diverter for any debris that gets caught up in the water and also protect against any blockages that might occur. Then, once you have checked that the diverter is securely in place, fill your rain barrel and you are ready to go.

Making a downspout diverter is a great way of using water efficiently and responsibly. By fitting a downspout diverter you will be helping to support the environment, as well as saving money on purchasing expensive parts. So, if you are looking to collect rainwater in an efficient and cost-effective way, why not give this DIY project a go?
Making a downspout diverter is a great way to conserve water and help tackle the problems associated with overflowing gutters. It is a simple, effective and relatively inexpensive project which can be successfully completed with some basic DIY skills and a few tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to show you how.

Begin by gathering the necessary supplies. You will need two pieces of piping, a welder, pipe joints and a screwdriver (or similar) to attach the joints. Make sure that the two pieces of piping you select are both the same length and size as the old pipe you wish to replace.

Using the welder, bind the two pieces of pipe to form an inverted “V” shape. Then, attach more layers of pipe over the top in order to form a block which will fit snugly over the existing pipe. To secure the block in place, glue and then weld it together.

Next, add extra piping to the two ends of the diverter so that the water is carried away to the place you would like. One pipe should be long enough to reach the drain, and the other should be long enough to reach the opening of the rain barrel. Use pipe joints to firmly attach the pipes in place.

Once the pipes are attached, you need to cut away enough of the old pipe so that your diverter will fit into it without leaving any gaps. Then, slot in the diverter and weld or screw in a pipe joint to secure it in place. To add some extra support and ensure it is firmly attached, screw in a few more pipe joints along the length of the pipe.

Finally, test the diverter to make sure it works as intended. Do this by pouring water into the gutter near the diverter and seeing where it eventually comes out. It should be roughly a 50/50 split between the drain and the rain barrel. If it all ends up going down the drain, then adjust the diverter accordingly. When you have reached a good ratio between the two, your diverter is ready to be left to do its job.

Making a downspout diverter is a great way to save the environment and help your home’s guttering system. All you need is some welding tools, materials and a basic knowledge of DIY, and you can be on your way to creating a useful, cost-effective product. With the steps provided, you should have no trouble in making your own downspout diverter.