When it comes to safeguarding your home against flooding, relying only on sump pumps may not be enough to prevent costly water damage.
Climate change is causing a rise in heavy rainfall events, forcing homeowners in certain areas in Québec to adopt a more comprehensive water control approach—both inside and out.
Begin with a Risk Assessment
Before investing in equipment, you should know if your property is vulnerable and, most importantly, where!
An inspection of the building and surrounding land will help uncover weak points:
- cracks in the foundation
- poorly oriented slopes
- too-low windowsills
- aging foundation drains
A contractor specializing in drainage or building inspection can perform this type of evaluation and offer solutions suited to your needs.
Regrade and Direct Runoff
Topography plays a key role. The ground around the house should always be graded to direct runoff away from the foundation, never toward it.
- Simply regrading the yard by raising areas with compacted soil or gravel can stop water in its tracks.
- Installing downspout extensions will ensure water drains at least 1.5 metres to 2 metres away from an exterior wall. Too many homeowners let water pool around the building’s perimeter without realizing it’s the primary reason water gets into basements.
Protect a Paved Driveway Sloping Toward the Garage
A sloping driveway presents a particular challenge: water naturally runs toward the garage door, increasing the risk of flooding during storms or rapid snowmelt. To reduce this risk, the following is recommended:
- Install a storm drain with a grate at the bottom of the slope. Connect it to an efficient drainage system that redirects the water to the sewer or to another drain some distance from the foundation.
- Add a removable threshold seal at the base of the garage door (in areas with a significant flood risk) to keep water out during heavy rains. In a sudden storm, this small accessory could make all the difference.
Focus on Foundation Drains for a Good Defence
A well designed and properly maintained French drain remains an invisible but indispensable line of defence for your home.
Over time, tree roots, sediment, or misdirected runoff may obstruct the drain. A camera inspection every 10 to 15 years is the best way to prevent expensive surprises. If you must have a new drain put in, use this opportunity to cover the foundation with a waterproofing membrane for extra protection.
Power Up Your Pump System
While a sump pump is a must when it comes to flood-proofing, it must be connected to a backup power source, such as a battery or a portable generator. Because what's the point of having a pump if it can’t run due to a power outage in the middle of a storm (which often happens)—exactly when it’s needed most.
Some modern models even include a smart alert system that will send a notification to your phone if the water rises to a critical level.
Optimize Your Protection With Backflow Valves
The backflow valve (or backwater valve) forms the backbone of a home’s flood prevention system. It stops municipal wastewater from flooding the basement in the event of a sewer backup. It’s typically a small box with a removable cover for maintenance access, often in the basement near the floor drain. It’s amazing how such a small component can single-handedly protect the entire house!
For maximum efficiency, make sure you can access the valve for easy maintenance. Cleaning the valve on a yearly basis is recommended because it can’t function effectively if clogged.
Landscape with Water Management in Mind
Landscaping can also play a role!
- Permeable pavers allow water to seep into the soil instead of running toward the walls.
- Vegetated swales, discrete ditches, and slightly elevated flower beds help channel runoff naturally.
- A rainwater harvesting barrel placed under the gutters likewise reduces the amount of water that reaches the ground. Plus, it doubles as a handy water reserve for the garden in the summer.
Stop Leaks at the Source
Inside the home, preventing leaks by sealing cracks in the foundation slab and walls is crucial. Epoxy- or polyurethane-based sealing products are effective. And it’s a project that many homeowners can tackle themselves.
- It’s best to avoid laminate wood flooring or thick carpeting when finishing a basement because they retain moisture. Consider vinyl, ceramic tile, or painted concrete as more water-resistant alternatives.
- Raising electrical appliances (washer, dryer, freezer) a few centimetres off the ground with pedestals can buy you precious time if water starts leaking in.
Lastly, you should consider preparing an emergency plan if your property is at risk!
Adequate coverage and an inventory list of all belongings stored in the basement with accompanying photos will greatly facilitate the claims process with your insurer.
