Maintain your gutters

Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around your home's foundation, which may cause leaks and structural damage over time. Regularly cleaning out leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters ensures proper drainage and prevents costly water-related issues. If you want an extra layer of protection, consider installing gutter guards to minimize buildup.

Redirect downspouts

Even if your gutters are clear, they won't be effective if your downspout's direct water too close to your home. To prevent water from seeping into your foundation, extend your downspout's at least eight feet away. You can direct the water further into your yard or garden for better drainage.

Install rain barrels

For a more sustainable downspout solution, consider collecting rainwater with a rain barrel. This allows you to collect water for gardening, lawn care, and other outdoor uses, reducing your reliance on tap water and saving on water costs. If your rain barrel is full and rain is in the forecast, drain it onto your lawn to make room for new water collection.

Windfall Ecology Centre has an annual Big Savings Rain Barrel Sale in Durham and York Regions

Protect pipes from freezing

During the colder months, exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, garages, or attics are at risk of freezing and bursting. Wrapping pipes in foam insulation or old towels can help maintain a stable temperature and prevent costly damage. If temperatures drop significantly, let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving and reduce the risk of freezing.

Maintain your window wells

If your home has window wells, check them regularly and keep them clear of debris. Leaves and other organic matter can break down and clog the drains beneath the wells, leading to water buildup. In winter, snow and ice can also accumulate and should be removed to prevent drainage issues. Installing a window well cover can help minimize maintenance and keep your wells clear year-round.

Fix leaky outdoor faucets

A leaky outdoor faucet may seem like a minor issue, but it can lead to water waste and even foundation damage if left unchecked. Continuous dripping can cause water to pool around your home, increasing the risk of moisture seeping into your basement or weakening the foundation over time. To fix the leak, start by tightening the packing nut or replacing the washer inside the faucet. If the issue persists, you may need to replace the faucet or check for damage in the connected pipes. Regularly inspecting and maintaining your outdoor faucets can help prevent costly repairs and conserve water.

Clear storm sewer grates

Blocked storm sewer grates are one of the leading causes of flooding, especially during heavy rainfall or snowmelt. Keeping the grate clear of leaves, dirt, and other debris ensures that water can flow freely, preventing pooling and potential flooding around your home. Regularly check the nearest storm sewer grate to keep it unobstructed and take a few moments to clear any debris that might accumulate over time. This simple maintenance step can help protect your property from water damage during storms and spring thaw.