Prepare Your Home for Spring Thaw

As the weather warms and Canadian families go from home-bound hibernating to springtime sun-seeking, it’s important to make sure that the weather changes do not damage our homes.

Protecting the quality of your home, especially during spring runoff in a heavy-snowfall region, requires a bit of foresight, planning and support. Here are some tips from the Insurance Bureau of Canada (IBC) that will help you take preventative measures.

• Inspect the grounds. Check to see if driveways, sidewalks, decks, around your basement, and patios have the appropriate grading to direct water away from your home.
• Check your eaves and downspouts. Ensure they extend away from your basement wall to allow the water to drain away from your home and out toward the backyard, back lane, or street.
• Check that your sump pump is correctly working. A functioning sump pump can prevent flooding in your home so be sure to check that it is in working order. Consider adding back-up battery power so that your sump pump continues to work in the event of an electricity outage. If you live in an area prone to flooding and you don't already have a sump pump installed it may be something to consider.
• Consider installing backflow valves. In the event of a main sewer backup, backflow valves will automatically close to prevent water and sewage from entering your home. Backflow valves are to be installed on your basement sewer connections such as drains and toilets and are a good preventative measure.