What To Expect: Stormwater Systems

When planning a new construction home, one of the most important yet often overlooked features is the stormwater system. Stormwater systems play a critical role in protecting your property from water damage and ensuring long-term sustainability. As a homeowner, understanding the process from start to finish can make all the difference in ensuring your investment is well-protected. At Kimball Construction, we take the time to integrate reliable stormwater solutions right from the foundation of every new home we build in Eugene, OR.

Stormwater systems are networks designed to manage and direct rainwater runoff away from your home and surrounding land. These systems can include surface elements like gutters and downspouts, as well as underground features such as rain gardens, soakage trenches, and dry wells. The purpose is to prevent water accumulation around the foundation, which could lead to erosion, flooding, or costly structural damage over time. Because homes in Eugene, OR experience frequent rainfall and seasonal weather shifts, a well-planned stormwater system isn’t just a benefit—it’s essential.

In a typical home construction project, stormwater systems are installed at specific stages to ensure maximum efficiency. They begin taking shape during the excavation and grading phase. This is when trenches are dug and slopes are formed to naturally guide water away from the property. Then, as framing and foundational work progress, underground features like soakage trenches and French drains are placed. These systems are designed to absorb and filter water gradually into the ground, supporting both environmental health and home durability.

When it comes time for the exterior finishing, that’s when surface-level components are added. Gutters, downspouts, and splash blocks are installed as the final step of the stormwater system. Each part is carefully positioned to complement the underground network already in place, ensuring that all stormwater is directed safely away from your home. Transitioning from underground solutions to visible exterior ones, the system as a whole becomes complete and fully functional.

The installation of these systems is carried out by professionals with specialized knowledge in hydrology, grading, and residential construction. That’s where Kimball Construction steps in. Our team doesn’t just build homes—we construct comprehensive solutions that include efficient stormwater management. With extensive experience in building homes across Eugene’s diverse terrain, our crews ensure that each component is installed to meet local codes and long-term performance standards.

On average, installing a full stormwater system takes anywhere from several days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of the site. For example, a simple setup might just require basic gutters and a soakage trench, while more challenging lots could need multiple systems such as rain gardens and catch basins. In all cases, the timeline is coordinated with other phases of construction to avoid delays and ensure seamless integration. Because gutters are usually installed last, homeowners often see this as a visible sign that their new home is nearly complete.

As a trusted general contractor in Eugene, Kimball Construction is committed to building homes that are not only beautiful but also built to handle the elements. Our team provides a thorough assessment of your lot, designs a custom stormwater solution, and installs it with precision and care. This ensures that your home stays protected no matter the weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of stormwater systems in homes?
Stormwater systems are designed to control and redirect rainwater away from your home’s foundation to prevent flooding, erosion, and moisture-related damage.

Are stormwater systems required for all new homes?
In Eugene, stormwater systems are required by local building codes for all new construction homes to ensure environmental protection and structural safety.

What’s the difference between surface and underground stormwater systems?
Surface systems include gutters and downspouts, while underground systems involve components like rain gardens, soakage trenches, and French drains that manage water below the surface.

Can I customize the type of stormwater system for my home?
Yes, Kimball Construction works with each homeowner to design a system tailored to the specific layout, elevation, and drainage needs of their property.

Do stormwater systems require regular maintenance?
Like all parts of a home, stormwater systems benefit from occasional maintenance. Keeping gutters clear and inspecting underground components helps them perform efficiently year-round.

Why should I choose Kimball Construction for my home’s stormwater system?
With years of experience in new home construction and a deep understanding of Eugene’s terrain and climate, Kimball Construction delivers dependable, code-compliant stormwater solutions as part of every custom home build.

Building a home involves countless decisions, but when it comes to stormwater systems, it’s wise to trust the experts. From planning through final installation, Kimball Construction ensures your home stays dry, safe, and strong for years to come. To learn more about stormwater solutions and other elements of our new home builds, visit our Building Guides Page or contact our team directly.