Grab Your Umbrella: Inspecting Your Grading & Drainage Systems In A Rainstorm

One of the best times to inspect your home for potential drainage and roofing issues is during a heavy rainstorm. This might seem counterintuitive, but grabbing an umbrella and heading outside in the rain can provide valuable insights into how well your roof, downspouts, and grading perform under wet conditions. Here’s why a rainstorm inspection is crucial and what to look for to ensure your home’s drainage system is functioning properly.

1. Assessing Roof Performance

During a rainstorm, observe how water flows off your roof. Look for areas where water may be pooling or not draining properly. Pay close attention to the following:

• Gutter Functionality: Ensure gutters are not overflowing. Overflowing gutters can indicate blockages or inadequate size.

• Downspout Efficacy: Check that downspouts are directing water away from the foundation. Water should be flowing freely through downspouts without spilling over the sides.

2. Checking Property Drainage

The way your property handles water during a rainstorm is crucial to preventing water damage. Walk around your home and take note of the drainage patterns:

• Ground Slope: The ground around your house should slope away from all sides to prevent water from pooling near the foundation. This helps avoid basement flooding and foundation damage.

• Surface Gutters and Drains: Ensure surface gutters and drains are channeling water away from your home effectively. Blockages or improper installation can lead to water accumulation and potential damage.

3. Observing Neighboring Properties

Understanding how water drains on your neighbor’s property can also be important. Water from neighboring properties can sometimes flow onto your land, exacerbating drainage issues. During a rainstorm, observe:

• Neighbor’s Downspouts: Check if your neighbor’s downspouts are directing water toward your property. This can help you address potential problems before they cause damage.

• Shared Drainage Patterns: Note any shared drainage patterns that might impact both properties. Collaborative solutions can often be more effective in managing water flow.

4. Benefits of Rainstorm Inspections

Inspecting your home during a rainstorm offers several benefits:

• Immediate Feedback: You get real-time feedback on how your home’s drainage system performs under stress.

• Identifying Weak Points: Spotting issues like clogged gutters, improper grading, and ineffective downspouts is easier when it’s raining.

• Preventing Damage: Early identification of drainage problems allows for timely repairs, preventing costly water damage to your home.
  

5. What to Do After the Inspection

Once you’ve identified potential issues during your rainstorm inspection, take the following steps to address them:

• Clear Blockages: Remove any debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow.

• Adjust Grading: If the ground around your home doesn’t slope away properly, consider regrading the soil to improve drainage.

• Repair and Replace: Fix or replace damaged gutters, downspouts, and drains to ensure your drainage system is fully functional.

Conclusion

Inspecting your home during a rainstorm might not be the most pleasant task, but it’s one of the most effective ways to identify and address drainage and roofing issues. By observing how water flows around your property, you can ensure your home’s drainage system is working properly, preventing potential water damage and maintaining the integrity of your home. Make rainstorm inspections a part of your regular home maintenance routine to keep your home safe and dry.