Longer days and warmer weather are usually a cause for celebration. It’s tempting to just go out and enjoy the great outdoors, but it’s also time to make sure you’re prepared for some of the less desirable side effects of spring. That’s right, we’re talking about flooding. According to The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration flooding causes the most damage compared to other weather-related events. Each year flooding costs Americans alone eight billion dollars in damages, and spring is the season when flooding is the most likely to impact your home.
Thanks to the sudden melting of snow, ice thawing underground, and high rain fall, flooding can cause an emergency, especially for those who live along rivers and streams where flooding is more likely. Here’s what you can do to help lessen the chances of a flooded basement, or worse!
Outdoor Perimeter Inspection
This sounds a lot more formal than it is. Walk around your property and check your driveway, walkways, porches, and decks to make sure that water is melting and being directed away from your home. Anything that is gathering water towards your home and foundation will need to be repaired and redirected. This inspection should include your eaves and downspouts. You may find it helpful to schedule the annual cleaning of your eaves in early spring, so you or the company you hire can find and remedy any clogs or potential sources of problems.
If You Have A Sump Pump...
It helps to have a system to check items in your home on a regular basis. Some people use the first day of a season (like the first day of spring) or daylight savings to check their smoke alarms, carbon monoxide detectors, and to change the filters in their furnace. If you have a sump pump add a quick check to ensure it’s functioning properly, to your seasonal ‘must do’ list. Consider adding back-up battery power to your sump pump or having
CarGenerator handy for use so it continues to work for you during a power outage.
Be A Good Neighbour
Check your area for any obstructions to both your own and public sewer drains around your home to allow for melting snow and falling rain to end up where it belongs. Your neighbours will thank you!
Monitor Inside for Potential Leaks
Keep an eye on your basement, near your windows, skylights, and more for potential leaks during stormy weather. Something that is a small puddle today can be repaired before it becomes a major leak during a future storm.
Install Backflow Valves
If there is a main sewer backup, those who have installed backflow valves in their basements can prevent water and sewage from entering their homes.
Check Your Local Forecasts
Keep your finger on the pulse of any weather systems coming your way. This will help you prepare when it comes to emergency supplies and grocery shopping should you be homebound while stormy weather passes. It also allows you to secure any patio furniture that might be problematic during a wind storm.
