Damage-Minimization Tips for the Rainy Months in Canada

Not only is it a bit of a bummer, but it can also put you and your family at increased risk for house floods and water damage. At Steamatic, we are here to help in case of damage in the home, but we would prefer it didn’t happen in the first place! So here are some water damage prevention tips that might help you out during this warm, rainy Canadian spring.

Keep valuable documents and items with sentimental value above ground.

A flood will, most likely, affect the basement. While it is possible that an above-ground floor could be affected, it is still a wise idea to utilize above-ground floors for storage of important items and documents. Water damaged items might be repairable, but documents are more likely to be completely ruined. Birth certificates, contracts, and bills should all be kept upstairs in case of a flood. Irreplaceable materials goods, or materials goods of high value, should also be kept upstairs to reduce the chances of damage. Do a quick sweep of the items stored in the basement, and assess whether you should rethink their position there. If they are durable, or if their loss is not the end of the world, then keep them in the basement.

Keep floor drains clear of any possible obstructions

Your floor drains serve a valuable, important purpose; let them do their job! In case of accidental flooding during these wet months, a floor drain will greatly help in lower water accumulation and will make clean up much, much easier. Even a small obstruction could slow down the draining process in the basement, which will cause more damage and cleanup to an already unfortunate situation. Simple being attentive to this minor detail will save you a lot of hassle in the long run.

Eavestroughs and downspouts can make all the difference.

Adjusting and clearing you eavestroughs and downspouts will make sure that the water is directed away from your household. This makes it less likely that a flood will occur! Getting up on to the roof sounds scary and like a chore, but we gaurantee that getting up there is much, much easier than dealing with a basement flood! Spring brings rain and showers, and during this time of the year, it is especially vital to check the eavestroughs and downspouts.

Always Have A Plan of Action

Despite following all these tips, sometimes flooding and damage is inevitable. Maybe it was bad luck, maybe it was a simple mistake, but these things happen. That’s okay! As long as you have a course of action planned in case of such emergencies, you will be prepared to handle the situation if it ever arises. Research companies before hand and find one you feel comfortable with. Check their credentials and their history. Do they provide all the services you need in case of a spring-time flood? Will they provide references from past clients? Are their technicians skilled and experienced in the services they offer? Knowing who you will need to contact in situations such as these will give you a much needed peace of mind.