April Showers Bring … Water. Lots of Water!

Spring is here! Every home needs regular maintenance and cleaning, and it’s a great idea to consider scheduling these with the change of season – both because it makes it easier to remember, but also because changes in weather often make them a necessity.

With the warm weather spring brings, it’s important to think about snow melt, spring rain, and the overall management of surface water to protect your home.

According to Alberta New Home Warranty, the Canadian prairies receive approximately 355mm of rain between the months of May to October. On a typical 40’ x 110’ lot, this would produce approximately 144,800 liters of water. That’s enough to fill approximately 638 average-sized bathtubs!

In the addition to rain, you must also consider the annual spring snow melt and the water used to maintain your lawn and flowerbeds. That’s a lot of water to manage.

Here are some handy tips to make sure your home is safe from water this spring:

• Check your gutters, eaves, and downspouts to ensure they are free of leaves, debris, and blockages; repair any loose joints or attachments. Ensure downspouts are in the correct position and extend at least 4-feet away from your home.
• Make sure your drainage systems are working properly (pumps, drains) and ensure water drains away from your home.
• Inspect your foundation for moisture and cracks and ensure your window wells are free of leaves and debris.
• The new sod and landscaping you might have installed last year will have settled, so be sure to examine your lot for low spots and ensure grading slopes away from the house.

Looking for more spring maintenance tips? Check them out here.