Spring Showers and Your Home: How to Divert Rainwater Away from Your Foundation
Diverting Water Away from Your House is Critical
"April showers bring May flowers" is something we've all probably heard at one point or another. It is a traditional English proverb that dates back several centuries, though its exact origin is unclear. There’s clearly a reason this phrase was coined and so often used during the springtime and this season is no different.
Our region has experienced lots of rain and moisture recently which the plants will surely benefit from. However, rain can come with a downside like flooding, pooling, and mold growth. In this article, we'll discuss the potential impact of spring rainfall on your home's foundation and why it's important to manage water flow.
Warning Signs
The dangers of water pooling around the foundation can cause damage to your property’s exterior and interior.
Warning signs can include:
- Pooling or Flooding – If you notice water collecting in areas outside of your home, it could indicate a water flow issue. In most cases, water that collects further away from the home does not present a critical issue; however, if this collection is close to the structure, problems can arise.
- Basement Moisture or Flooding – Likewise, if you are experiencing water intrusion in your basement, that is a sign that your basement foundation is damaged. Cracks in the walls and floors, bowed walls, and sinking foundations are also indicators that there is an issue.
- Mold Growth – If your basement shows any signs of mold, moisture, or leaks, it’s crucial to immediately contact an honest, experienced, and professional basement waterproofing company. Mold isn’t just unsightly; it’s a serious health hazard and a clear indicator that water is entering your home. Unaddressed moisture can lead to costly damage and hazardous air quality, whether it’s due to foundation cracks, backed-up drains, underground springs, or poor landscaping. Don’t wait, the presence of mold means the issue is already progressing.
Solutions for Diverting Water Away from Your Home
To effectively divert water away from your home's foundation, it's essential to implement a combination of strategies that manage surface runoff and subsurface moisture. Proper grading designs the surface to naturally drain away from the foundation, directing water away from the structure. Installing gutters and downspouts captures roof runoff and channels it safely away from the home. Additionally, incorporating French Drains and landscape barriers can further protect your foundation by managing water flow and preventing accumulation near the base of your home.
Advanced Basement Solutions offers comprehensive services to address these concerns:
- French/Yard Drains – These systems can be installed inside and outside your home. Exterior French Drains effectively redirect subsurface water away from your foundation, preventing water accumulation that can lead to structural issues.
- Downspout Lines – By connecting directly to your home's downspouts, these lines carry water away from the foundation, minimizing the danger of water pooling and potential damage.
- Driveway Drains – Driveway Drains are installed in driveways. They prevent water accumulation that can enter the foundation or cause surface damage.
Implementing these solutions can drastically reduce the risk of water-related foundation issues, ensuring the longevity and safety of your home.
Maintenance Tips
You may ask how to maintain these systems regularly to prevent long-term damage. Protecting your home starts with keeping your drainage systems in top shape.
Here are simple but effective maintenance tips for French/yard drains, downspout lines and driveway drains to ensure they continue working efficiently.
French/Yard Drains
Installed inside or outside your home, French Drains help redirect subsurface water away from your foundation.
Keep them flowing with these tips:
- Inspect regularly – Check for clogs or sediment buildup, especially after storms.
- Flush the system – Periodically run water through to clear minor obstructions.
- Maintain the surroundings – Keep vegetation trimmed and the inlet area clear of leaves or mulch.
- Watch for erosion – Ensure the gravel trench hasn’t shifted or compacted over time.
Downspout Lines
These connect directly to your gutter downspouts to carry water away from your home.
Keep them functioning smoothly with the following:
- Clear blockages – Regularly clean gutters and downspouts to prevent debris from reaching the underground line.
- Secure connections – Make sure fittings are tight and sealed to avoid leaks.
- Test the system – Run water through the downspouts to ensure proper flow.
- Keep the exit clear – Make sure soil, plants, or ice don’t block the outlet of the drain line.
Driveway Drains
Driveway drains prevent surface water from seeping toward your foundation.
Maintain them by:
- Cleaning grates – Regularly remove dirt, leaves, and gravel from the surface.
- Watching for pooling – Water that doesn’t drain properly could indicate a clog or pitch issue.
- Flushing the channel – Run water through the drain to keep it clear and functional.
- Post-storm checks – Inspect after heavy rain or snow to ensure the drain hasn’t been blocked or damaged.
Want to learn more about water diversion? Contact Advanced Basement Solutions!
Whether you’re looking to maintain your drainage system or need expert advice on water diversion solutions, Advanced Basement Solutions is here to help.
Serving the Greater Pittsburgh area and beyond with trusted experience and professional care. Call us or send a message today to get started. Let Advanced Basement Solutions protect your home, starting from the ground up.