The 10 Best Splash Blocks

At nearly two feet long and about a foot wide, the Flex-Drain 3002-12 (about $13) can handle the most torrential of downpours. It's a few inches wider at the bottom than at the top, helping to gently disperse runoff, thereby minimizing erosion.

The Palos Designs Decorative (about $80) is one option you won't want to hide behind plants in your garden, as it boasts multicolored "stones" artfully arranged along the edges. It's certainly more attractive than plain, plastic models, but expect a higher price as a result.

The true purpose of the CTD Store Playful (appx. $86) may not be immediately clear, as it appears to be a lawn statue depicting a curious cat and a cautious frog. Once it starts to rain, though, you'll appreciate how well it creates a wide stream away from your house.

If you want an affordable, eco-friendly option, then the Master Mark (appx. $7) is a smart choice. It's made from 100 percent recycled plastic, so it protects the planet in addition to helping protect your home's foundations from erosion.

The Genova 19581 (about $13) disperses water gently, rather than channeling it into a focused stream capable of putting holes in your lawn. At almost two pounds, it's substantial enough to stay put in moderate winds, yet easy to move if necessary.

The Suncast Decorative (around $10) is a relatively handsome, no-frills option for anyone who just wants to get the job done. It doesn't require any anchoring to keep it in place, as you can simply slip it under the downspout to hold it.

The Lake Lite Diamond (appx. $15) will survive regardless of where you live, as the molded plastic can withstand extreme temperatures at either end of the scale. You can leave it out year-round without worrying about it cracking or degrading.

The Wind & Weather Whimsical (around $39) may look like a fragile decoration, but it's surprisingly durable, so don't be afraid to leave it out year-round. It's made of a weather-resistant material that enables it to survive extreme conditions.

If you're concerned that the exterior of your home might not be adorable enough, the Design Toscano Gutter Guardian can remedy that. These statues come in an assortment of options, including a golden retriever puppy, a squirrel, a cat, a raccoon, and more.

This aluminum option from Oakland Living (appx. $76) will dress up your downspouts while protecting your foundations. It's heavy enough to stand up to wind and heavy rain, and the bronze finish is lovely. It's a good choice for those who want something more elegant than plastic.