After choosing siding, trim, and a front-door colour, it is tempting to treat the downspout as an unwanted line on the photograph. It is also carrying water from a large part of the roof.
Start where the water lands
Look at the present outlet and the proposed one. Consider the foundation, paths, driveway, neighbouring property, and how the ground drains. A quieter-looking side wall is not automatically a suitable place to discharge roof water.
Toronto’s downspout disconnection guidance addresses drainage away from the home and avoiding harm to neighbouring property or walking surfaces. Check your own municipality’s requirements and the conditions of the actual site.
Choose the finish after the route works
If the current system functions properly, matching the downspout more closely to the surface behind it can be a modest visual improvement. Use a compatible factory finish or coating system for the material. Do not paint over joints or defects and call the drainage problem finished.
If rerouting, have the gutter contractor assess the complete collection and discharge arrangement. More elbows, a long horizontal run, or an outlet at the wrong end of the gutter can turn a cosmetic adjustment into a recurring maintenance problem.
Leave it serviceable
Keep the pipe and connections accessible for inspection and cleaning. Our preference is to make a working downspout visually quiet before making it complicated. Relocate it when a properly resolved drainage plan supports the move. Water will not appreciate the elevation drawing, but the basement may appreciate the restraint.