We’re moving into the rainy season in British Columbia, so are you prepared? The best way to manage water damage in your home is to stop it before it starts. From preventing leaks to ensuring proper drainage and redirecting run-off, we’ve got you covered with simple steps to protect your home from heavy rain this fall. Read on to find out how!
- Clean your Gutters and Downspouts
Whether you do it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you, cleaning your gutters and creating a clear path for runoff is essential to rainproof your home. A well-functioning gutter system will collect excess water and guide it away from your home to protect the foundation. Be sure to remove leaves and other debris once or twice a year, and if available, use a pressure washer to clean your gutters once they’re clear.
- Ensure Proper Drainage
Once you’ve cleaned your gutters, make sure your downspouts are draining properly. Ensure they’re facing away from your home and in the most downhill direction possible to redirect the water flow and divert it away from your house. Sometimes, professionally installed downspouts and gutters can save you thousands in repairs. If you’re unsure about the ability of your drainage system to protect your home from heavy rain, give us a call at Ashton, we’d love to help you out.
- Check your Property for Low Lying Areas and Re-Direct Runoff
Taking steps to protect your home from heavy rain starts with the exterior, and if your home sits at the bottom of a slope, you could have problems with pooling water near your foundation. Depending on the grade and the slope of the land, you may want to work with a landscaping and drainage specialist to help you adjust the slope or plant strategically placed shrubbery in your yard.
- Test your Drain Tiles and Foundation Drainage
Most drainage systems include a porous pipe for underground water collection. At Ashton, our skilled professionals understand how to maintain and repair these important elements of your system. If you’re looking for professional assistance or advice to prepare your home for the rainy season, give us a call.
- Consider Installing a Sump Pump
A sump pump is an effective, automated system that protects your home from heavy rain and rising water that can flood your space. This simple tool can save you huge repair costs and avoid structural damage that can result from groundwater flooding and overflow. Learn more on our blog Understanding Sump Pumps and Flood Prevention.
- Inspect your Roof
Inspecting your roof regularly and repairing any shingles that appear to be missing or damaged will help prevent excess water from entering your home. It’s a good idea to look over your roof before the rainy season every year, and identify any warning signs such as sagging or damage to overhanging structures.
- Seal Your Windows and Doors
Ensure that the areas around your windows and doors are sealed to block water from entering your home. Water can seep into the space around windows and door frames if they aren’t properly sealed.
- Seal Cracks in your Foundation
It’s important to check your home’s foundation regularly for signs of any cracks or damage. Sealing minor cracks is a simple fix that prevents water from seeping in, and can save you costly repairs down the road.
- Avoid Pouring Oil or Grease Down the Drain
Prevent drain blockages by keeping your pipes clear. Dispose of fats, oil and grease that can clog your pipes with regular food waste instead.
We hope you can apply these basic preventative maintenance tips to prevent leaks and protect your home from heavy rain this year. If you need assistance, don’t hesitate to give us a call at Ashton Plumbing, Heating, and Air, we’re here to help!
Vancouver, BC V6X 3M4
24/7 Live Answering