Up until last week it has been a fairly dry summer in Alberta. But, now that we're starting to get some much needed rain we're also seeing basement flooding, and in some areas (like Chestermere) severe flooding. So in the name of prevention, here's a handy checklist that you can use to help keep your basement dry.
Flood Prevention Checklist
Thanks to The City of Lethbridge, one of Alberta's wettest cities, for compiling some great information on flood prevention in your home. Run through this list with your home to lessen the risk of flooding your basement:
- Remove leaves and twigs from your eavestroughs on a regular basis. This allows water to flow unobstructed to the downspouts and away from your home.
- Maintain positive drainage away from your home.
- Make sure downspouts are directed 2.0m (6’) away from your home. Install a splash pad.
- Install sloped clay. Ensure a 10% slope for the first 2 metres from your foundation wall.
- New homes now require a lot grading permit (Bylaw 5829).
- Keep your gutters and stormdrains (catch basins) free of debris. Get involved in one of our stormwater awareness programs.
- Window wells should be covered to prevent leakage.
- Ensure sump pump is in good working condition. Ensure backflow prevention is installed correctly and in good working condition.
- Ensure weeping tiles have been repaired and are in good working order.
- Prevent basement seepage by sealing cracks in the foundation walls and basement floor.
- Ensure cracks and loose joints in the sanitary lateral have been repaired.
More Information
This and more great information can be found on The City of Lethbridge's website at www.lethbridge.ca/floodprevention.
