These days, it seems like just about every time we turn on the TV or check the weather on the internet, yet another storm warning is issued. Is your home ready for the next torrential downpour? Or do you risk devastating water damage because your drains and stormwater systems are below par?
While it’s true that Mother Nature seems increasingly in charge, it’s not too late to do absolutely everything you can to prevent water damage this storm season:
1. Clear out the gutters
When was the last time you checked the gutters? It may seem like a boring task, but don’t forget that your entire stormwater system relies upon runoff being able to flow efficiently from the tip of your roof to the safety of the stormwater drain via your gutters & downpipes.
Did you know a leaf blower is a brilliant way to quickly blow all of the dry gunk out of your gutters? For clearing your downpipes, the garden hose should suffice.
2. Check for drain debris
The thing that can compromise your stormwater drains ahead of the next storm is … the previous storm! Often, it’s all that tree and leaf debris delivered to your drains from the last round of inclement weather that block the drains or the drainage paths when the next storm strikes.
To take even more pre-emptive action, don’t forget to regularly tidy up the backyard of potential drain debris, including raking up and bagging up leaves.
3. Improve drainage systems
Remember the last downpour? Did you notice any areas where water pooled the most extremely? If they were anywhere near your property’s very foundations, you’ve got a potential for a seriously water damaged investment on your hands – because we’ve seen cases where extreme, structural damage to homes was just a particularly serious storm away.
Remember, there should be a gentle downward slope away from your foundations to prevent this sort of damage, so if you’re not sure, get in touch with a drainage solutions specialist for guidance.
4. Secure the foundations
Obviously, when you’re thinking about the consequences of a particularly serious storm, it’s things like water damage to your ceiling as well as destroyed, water damaged carpet that immediately spring to mind. But as we’ve already suggested, far, far more damaging would be compromised foundations.
When was the last time you checked the current condition of your foundations? Have you noticed any cracks or openings, and considered properly re-sealing them? Don’t forget, apparently innocuous foundation cracks could ultimately cost you thousands in water damage – and even worse.
5. Check for internal leaks
If your roof plumbing is inefficient, thousands upon thousands of litres of run-off can find its way into your roof and lead to water damaged belongings, furniture, carpets, walls, ceilings, wiring – and more. So the next time the heavens really open, go over your place with a fine-tooth comb – and watch out for the signs of leaks, water incursions & water damage.
The red flags to really watch out for are:
- Wet carpet patches
- Swollen trim
- Water in window wells
- Patches of mould
- Dripping or trickling noises.
Prevent water damage with the Drain Masters
Need friendly, affordable, professional help with your property’s drainage issues or systems? From the tip of your roof via the gutters & downpipes to your drain connections, stormwater pits and beyond, we provide tailored advice and specialised services so you no longer need to stress.
So if you have a feeling Mother Nature might have some serious water damage in mind for your castle, get in touch with Drain Masters Plumbing – and we’ll do the rest.
