The rains have been unprecedented in Colorado this year. We are getting more calls this year for flooded basements than we have in many years. This is due to failed sump pumps, no sump pump currently installed or issues with external drainage away from foundation walls. It all comes back to your plumbing and drainage systems. If your home’s plumbing and drainage systems are not properly installed for flood prevention, you risk major damages in and around your home. We’ve put together three preventative plumbing measures to keep your home safe and dry. Keep reading for helpful tips to avoid a flooded basement both during the rain downpours as well as after the rainy season ends when snow starts to melt and cause more water buildup.
- Our sump pumps have never had to work so hard! Have your current sump pump inspected. Many homes have older sump pumps or systems that have not had to keep up with so much water. We recommend scheduling an inspection from a qualified plumber to ensure you won’t encounter a flooding problem. Drain Terrier offers a 5-point inspection which includes inspecting your existing sump pump, check valve, float, piping and water termination flow outside, and sump pit condition. Many homes that have not needed sump pumps in the past are needing them now to keep up with extra water coming in from massive rain downfall. Once the rain subsides, we will see snow melt from the mountains adding to our water tables as well. Preparation is best. If you notice any water pooling in your basement, it’s time to call a plumber!
- Preparation and protection: This suggestion is simple and inexpensive. A water alarm is a small battery powered device that sounds an alarm when it senses water where water should not be – aka your new best friend. You can purchase a water alarm and place it near your sump pit and/or the lowest point in your basement. You can also place a water alarm near your hot water heater and under your kitchen faucets and bathroom faucets. These cost around $20 and can be purchased online or at a hardware store are worth every penny. Drain Terrier offers a free water alarm with the purchase of a new sump pump installation or with a 5-point inspection service call. A few minutes of prevention can save you headache and expense down the road.
- Check outdoor drainage systems: Take a walk around the outside of our home to inspect downspouts, french drains and grading/landfall. Check french drain pop ups to make sure they’re clear of debris. If you notice water pooling around the outside of your home, it’s time to call a landscaping/gutter servicing company depending on the cause. Water pooling around your home can seep into your basement and cause flooding or damage to your walls and foundation. Plumbers and drain cleaners can help with a clogged french drain in most instances but landscaping or gutter professionals are your go to for drain/gutter installation and repair or grading issues.
Water tables are rising due to back-to-back thunderstorms and more than usual rain. And, we haven’t seen the worst of it! With summer temperatures coming on, snow melt has not yet reached its peak and will cause an onset of rising water in the coming months. Preparation is key and keeping your plumbing ready will help lots. We hope these tips have been helpful and actionable for keeping the inside and outside of your home safe and dry. When in doubt, Drain Terrier is here to help. Give us a call at 720-999-6120 to schedule an appointment.
