After today’s rain storm in Toronto we thought it might be a good idea to go over a few ways you as a home owner or landlord can protect your house and property from water damage.
1.Clean gutters of leaves and debris
Rainfall on your roof needs a proper channel to exit the roof and by keeping your gutters clean the rain will escape.
2.Install window well covers
Window well covers on basement windows will prevent rainfall from accumulating directly beside the window and should displace the water to your lawn.
3.Channel downspouts away from your home
Having downspouts next to your house can result in large accumulation of water beside your house. Buying simple extensions and channeling the water to your lawns will keep water away from your basement.
4.Install a backwater valve
Sometimes the problems can start from the street, and if city sewers are overwhelmed or backed up water can come back towards your property. A backwater valve helps prevent water coming back into the house’s sewer by usually having a flap that closes off if it detects water coming in the other way.
5.Make sure your basement drains are clear and free of debris
You want to make sure your basement drain is in proper working order and free of debris so water can escape.
6.Waterproof your basement walls
It may be a good idea to consider waterproofing the basement walls if your home is older this should seal up any cracks in walls where water can enter.
7.Grade your lawn away from the house
Sometime simple landscaping can make a big difference. By sloping the ground away from your house water can be prevented from pooling around your walls.
8.Add a sump pump with battery backup
Sump pumps are used to remove water from around your house, but they can fail if the power goes out which is why it is a good idea to consider a battery backup in case of power outage.
9.Move expensive items to higher locations
By moving expensive items from the floor it can mitigate damages to your property if water does enter.
10.Avoid putting grease down drains
Grease from cooking can clog drains which is why it is important not to put it down your drains in the first place. By keeping drains clear, water has a better chance of escaping.