Downspout guards are an alternative to downspout boots used in protecting exterior downspouts on commercial buildings. While downspout guards share a common purpose with downspout boots in that they resist impact and prevent damage to the downspout, there are various key differences between the two products.

In this blog post we will answer commonly asked questions about the difference between downspout guards and downspout boots, and the advantages of each option.

Downspout guards (left) provide downspout protection while downspout boots (right) are a multi-functional product that play a critical role in the building drainage system.

What is a downspout guard?

Note: in some cases the term downspout guard may refer to downspout strainers that prevent leaves and debris from entering a downspout. This blog post relates to the type of downspout guards (also known as downspout protectors) that are secured over an exterior downspout to protect it from damage.

Downspout guards are typically fabricated from plate steel ranging in thickness from 12ga to ¼” thick and welded or bent to conform to the shape of the downspout. They generally feature a full-length flange or anchor tabs for securing to the building wall.

The purpose of a downspout guard, or downspout protector, is to prevent the downspout from being damaged in areas with foot traffic and/or vehicular activity. Damaged downspouts are not only unattractive but they have the potential to cause additional harm to the building and property.

What is the difference between a downspout guard, or downspout protector, and a downspout boot?

There are several key differences between downspout guards and downspout boots. For starters, downspout boots play the critical role of connecting the square or rectangular downspout to the round drainage pipe, providing runoff from the roof drainage system a flow-efficient transition to the underground system. Fabricated downspout guards do not have any drainage-related function, they merely fit over the downspout as a protective element.

Unlike downspout boots, downspout guards do not provide complete protection of the downspout. Typical downspout guards allow several inches or more clearance above grade leaving the downspout or downspout adapter below exposed. The portion of the downspout closest to ground elevation is often most in need of protection, especially in areas with high foot traffic or mobile equipment activity. When the downspout is damaged below the downspout guard, repair often involves complete removal of the guard, increasing the time and cost associated with repairing the downspout.

Fabricated downspout guards typically provide partial protection of the downspout and they do not assist with drainage.

Another difference between downspout guards and downspout boots is their physical appearance. Cast iron downspout boots bring a streamlined and space-efficient appearance to the building exterior, often going completely unnoticed in highly visible areas such as main entrances and courtyards. Downspout guards generally protrude out from the building wall significantly and often do not conform closely to the outer dimensions of the downspout. The resulting gap between the downspout guard and the downspout itself is unattractive and may collect debris and litter from pedestrians in highly active areas. Due to their subpar appearance, downspout guards are more suitable for areas of the building that are hidden from view.

Additional differences between downspout guards, or downspout protectors, and downspout boots include the following:

• - Downspout boots allow on-body cleanout access for inspection and maintenance.
• - Downspout guards are not commercially available in a wide range of sizes, often requiring custom fabrication.
• - Cast iron downspout boots are more durable and corrosion resistant than a carbon steel downspout guard.

Downspout guards often fail to protect the downspout or adapter in the most critical location a few inches from the ground.

When are downspout guards, or downspout protectors, an acceptable option?

In some cases downspout guards are more easily installed as a retrofit solution for existing buildings (as opposed to new construction). For example, if an existing downspout is highly prone to damage by impact due to its location, a steel downspout guard may be adequate in preventing further damage. Generally speaking, downspout guards are best suited for applications where appearance is not important, all drainage connections are properly designed and installed and there is no risk of damage to the downspout where it is not protected by the downspout guard.

What is the cost difference between downspout guards and downspout boots?

A direct cost comparison between downspout guards and downspout boots is difficult to make as downspout boots bring a variety of benefits to the performance and appearance of the building drainage system, whereas downspout guards provide partial protection of the downspout.

The market price for a downspout guard in many cases will be lower than that of a downspout boot when dealing with standard sizes. However, many downspout guards are comparable in price to cast iron downspout boots or even more expensive, as they require custom fabrication to meet project specific dimensions.

For more information on the differences between downspout guards and downspout boots, please contact us at info@downspoutboots.com and 1-800-245-5521