Why Protecting Your Home Before Heavy Rainfall is Crucial in Quebec
Living in Quebec means experiencing all 4 seasons in their full intensity, and that includes some heavy rainfall, like the downpour we had this past Friday… It is unfortunate to see that our cities infrastructure cannot handle such a load but if we are being fully honest, I do not think many major cities can withstand almost 150mm of rain in under 18 hours. This type of heavy rain can lead to serious water damage if your home isn’t properly protected. Ensuring your property is safeguarded against the elements is essential to prevent costly repairs, maintain property value, and keep your home safe and dry.
Here are the three best ways to protect your home before the next big storm hits:
1.Gutter Extensions: Directing Water Away from Your Home
Gutters play a vital role in directing rainwater away from your home, but they can only do so much on their own. Gutter extensions are a simple and cheap, yet effective solutions. By extending your downspouts, you can ensure that rainwater is directed several feet away from your foundation, preventing water from pooling around your home and seeping into the basement. It sounds easy and obvious but trust me as a realtor, we often see homes without any downspouts.
2.Sump Pump: Your Basement’s Best Friend
Luckily the new building code of Quebec (since around 2010) obliges new builders to add a sump pump into every home, however for older homes (1940’s – 2000’s) you may not already have one installed, and in situations like Friday, that can be a problem… In areas prone to heavy rainfall, like many parts of Quebec, a sump pump is a must-have. This device is designed to pump water out of your basement and away from your property. It’s especially crucial if your home is in a low-lying area or has a history of flooding. A functioning sump pump can be the difference between a dry basement and a costly, water-damaged one.
3. French Drain: Keeping Water Flowing Smoothly
A French drain is an underground drainage system that helps redirect water away from your home’s foundation. They have been part of the building code since the 1950’s!! So that means almost every home you see has one… The question is, do they still work? It’s particularly effective in areas with high water tables or where the soil doesn’t drain well. Ensuring your French drain is functioning correctly, especially after heavy rains like the ones we experienced, can prevent water from saturating the soil around your home and causing structural issues. If you are on the hunt for a home and are not sure of the condition of the french drain, A good idea would be to pass a camera and do a drain inspection.
With the unpredictable weather we often face in Quebec, taking proactive steps to protect your home from heavy rainfall is essential. By installing gutter extensions, maintaining a sump pump, and ensuring your French drain is in good working order, you can keep your home safe, dry, and secure—no matter what Mother Nature throws your way! 🌧️🏠
