As winter approaches, cleaning out drainage systems becomes crucial to protect your home from potential water damage and costly repairs. Proper drainage maintenance helps prevent clogged pipes, freezing and other common winter issues.
Why Clean Your Drains Before Winter?
Damage Control
Clogged or poorly maintained drains can lead to pooling water, ice dams, and even burst pipes. Debris ridden drains and pipes can freeze, creating blockages that lead to leaks, foundation damage, and mold growth. Ensuring your drainage systems are clear of rubbish allows water and snow melt to flow freely, reducing these risks and minimizing costly winter repairs.
Channel/Gutter Drains– Channels or gutters collect rainwater and melting snow, directing it away from homes and commercial buildings. Clearing leaves, twigs, and other debris helps to prevent clogs and ice buildup that can lead to infrastructure damage.
Surface Drainage – Surface drains are often found in yards or driveways. They are designed to prevent stormwater from pooling in low areas causing unwanted damage and standing water to become stagnate. Cleaning these drains before winter reduces the risk of freezing, keeping water flowing safely away.
Subsurface Drainage – French drains and other subsurface systems, such as storm chambers manage groundwater around your home or business. Regular maintenance keeps these drains functioning efficiently, reducing water buildup around your foundation and greenspaces.
Storm Drains – Public or community storm drains equipped with heavy-duty grates also need attention, as they can back up during heavy winter rains or snowmelt. While the city maintains them, keeping the drain area free of leaves and other refuse helps to minimize local flooding.
How to Clean and prepare your drains
Maintain My Drains
Clear Debris: Remove leaves and debris to prevent clogs, as well as ice formations within your trench drain channels or downspout drains.
Flush Outdoor Drains: Use water to test and clear outdoor surface drains. This also helps to spot any blockages that need to be removed.
Inspect for Damage: Look for signs of wear, sagging, or cracks that could worsen in the freezing temperatures to come. Replace damaged drains before the snowy and wet weather arrives.
By following these simple steps, you’ll help to ensure your drainage systems are ready to handle winter’s challenges, reducing the risk of damage and encourage a stress-free season.
The experts at TDS can help you find the right drains to fit your plan and budget. Contact us for a free quote or for further information on drainage solutions visit TrenchDrain.com or DrainageKits.com
Phone: 610-882-3630
Email: Shop@TrenchDrain.com
Click here for a fast and free quote!
