It’s been a long hard winter, but things are looking up! The ice is finally starting to melt, and though we’re all happy to see it go, you also need to make sure your home is protected from all that water. From RAIN Community Solutions director Sharyn Inward, six tips to keep your basement dry so you can enjoy the lovely weather that’s coming up!
- Check and clear the nearest storm drain of ice, snow, and debris. If the storm drain is blocked during a major rain or meltdown, your street can fill up like a swimming pool.
- Check downspout extensions are free of debris and damage and reattach if necessary. Sometimes extensions come off over the winter, or were left hanging when the rain barrel was removed, allowing water to run directly to your foundation.
- Walk around your home during a heavy rain or melt event to see and understand where the water runs off the roof and away from the house. Is there anywhere that the water is pooling or running towards your foundation? If so, make repairs to eaves, downspouts and/or regrade the area to ensure water runs away from the foundation.
- Clear ice build-up that may be blocking water from running away from the house and driveway.
- Check that your sump pump is operating. During a heavy rain event listen carefully to make sure it comes on regularly. Keep a backup power source (battery) in case of prolonged power outage. Consider keeping a second pump handy in case of malfunction.
- Ensure everything you keep in the basement is stored on shelves off the floor.
For even more tips to protect your home from water damage, see the Rainproofing Checklist for Property Owners.