Excess water can quickly destroy a yard or landscape, create soft muddy spots and promote mosquito problems. It can also seep into a home’s foundation and cause severe flood damage or structural damage.
A drainage system redirects excess rainwater away from structures and lawns. It’s a preventative measure to avoid costly water damage.
Water Damage Prevention
Many things can cause water damage in your home. Some are sudden, like flooding from heavy rains or hurricanes. Others could be faster, like leaky pipes or water buildup from a clogged sink or drain. These problems can cause severe problems and cost you much money to repair.
A sound drainage system keeps the soil around your house dry. It funnels water away from the foundation and crawl spaces. Without this, moisture can collect and weaken the foundation.
Acting quickly is essential if you notice signs of a water leak or flood. Water damage spreads speedily and damages all it touches, including drywall, flooring, furniture, and personal belongings. It can also be a health hazard, containing bacteria and germs proliferating. The sooner you call a water restoration service, the better. It’s also important to contact your insurance company as quickly as possible. This will prevent further water damage and save you much money on repairs.
Mold
Mold and mildew can quickly develop after water damage, especially if the area isn’t dried completely. Mold spores can spread throughout the home, causing additional damage and health issues.
Mold can also be challenging to clean and may require professional removal. It can eat through drywall, carpeting, and other absorbent materials. It can also irritate the skin, eyes, nose, and throat of those with sensitivities.
The best way to prevent mold is to take precautions during heavy storms and to have sound drainage installation MA around and under the house. Keeping the ground sloped away from foundations and regularly cleaning and maintaining air conditioning drip pans can help keep moisture levels low.
If you experience water damage, dry the affected areas within 24-48 hours. Use plastic tarps or plywood to cover any open spaces. Dry the underlying materials, and sanitize hard surfaces with 1.5 cups of fresh chlorine bleach to one gallon of water.
Clogged Drains
Drain clogs are among the most common plumbing issues people call plumbers to fix. These clogs occur when something that should not go down the drain is flushed or washed. For example, clumping cat litter can clog sewer lines because it contains clay that is difficult for sewage treatment plants to process. Other common causes of slow or clogged drains include:
To prevent these problems, avoid putting anything down your drain that you shouldn’t. This includes food scraps, coffee grounds, and grease. Instead, throw them in the trash or compost pile. Also, put a mesh shower drain hair catcher in your tub or shower to keep out large amounts of hair. Additionally, try to pour a little baking soda and vinegar down your sinks about once a month. This combination will eliminate any grease and grime that may build up on your drain walls. It will also help your drains smell fresher.
Foundation Damage
A flooded foundation can cause severe damage to your home. It can sag floors, weaken foundation walls, and create cracks in your house’s foundation or other structures. These problems are expensive to repair and can lead to mold or insect infestations that endanger human health.
Proper soil drainage is essential to prevent water damage. The ground must be properly sloped, and sand or gravel should be placed around the home’s foundation to direct water flow from the structure. In addition, the soil must be well compacted to ensure proper moisture retention and directional flow.
If your ground does not naturally slope and channel water away from the house, you can install a French drain to protect your foundation. This involves digging a trench near the foundation and installing a perforated pipe wrapped in a waterproof material with a 3% to 5% slope. The trench is filled with gravel, and the perforated pipe is covered with topsoil.
