Some Fall Drainage Tips to Put in Place Before the Rain Really Picks Up in Seattle
It would be a good time to ask if your gutters are at capacity with every downpour, or whether you have seen water make a pool by the foundation. And are your drains up to the task for the wet months on the horizon?
You are not the only one with such concerns. When it is fall in the Puget Sound there is no mistaking what is in store: hard and fast rain. We of South West Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric have put Seattle homeowners at ease and kept them dry for the better part of four decades, since 1982. Give us a ring at (253) 642-8810.
The drainage system of any home is under considerable duress in this city come the rainy season. What may seem like an inconsequential clog in October will be a flooded basement in December if left to its own devices. A bit of forethought can spare you that trouble. Here are some things you should do before the storms get worse.
The Importance of Fall Drainage in This Part of Town
In Greater Seattle you have your leaves, then the heavy rain and more leaves to top it off. It is a lot for your sewer lines, gutters and drains to take. Debris and leaves have a way of building up and when the rain comes in force there is no place for blockages to go.
Too many homeowners put off thinking about their drainage until they find water where it has no business being; but the damage is usually done by then. It is less of a hassle to get ahead of the season.
Gutters and Downspouts Need Attention
They are what stands between you and the rainwater. Clogged gutters let water run over and head straight for your foundation.
Before the deluge we recommend you do the following:
- Go the length of each gutter and clear out the twigs, debris and leaves
- Use a hose to flush the gutters and see that water is running free
- Verify the downspouts are sending water to a safe distance from the foundation
- See to it that any extensions on the downspout are pointed the right way and still attached
- Put your eye to any sagging or fasteners that are loose
- Check for rust or a crack or gap through which water might get out
Should your downspouts feed an underground drain line, check for any obstructions. You do not want a clogged line to return the water to your house.
A Test for Your Yard Drains
Whether it is a French drain or an area drain, they have plenty of work to do in a Seattle winter, provided they are not obstructed.
Take a bucket of water to your outdoor drains and observe how fast it goes. If it lingers or is slow to disappear, a partial clog is the likely culprit. Better to put a stop to it now than have standing water on your hands.
Tell-Tale Signs Within
What is going on below ground will show itself in your indoor drains. Be on the lookout for:
- Sinks, tubs or showers that are slow to drain
- A gurgling noise from the toilet or drains
- Water in one fixture as you are using another
- An odor about the floor drains
- More than one drain giving you trouble
When several drains are slow at once, the main sewer line is often the source. Tree roots and the fall rains can compound matters.
Have a Look at Your Sewer Line
Mature trees in older homes in the area mean the sewer line is subject to root intrusion in small cracks, and the autumn rains put added strain on it. An inspection with a camera will show you the state of your pipes and prevent a backup.
Our team does this kind of thing day in and day out. We will give you an honest quote to start with and we work on all makes and models.
Foundation and Crawl Space Care
Water will make its way to the lowest point, say your basement or crawl space, if you do not put it somewhere else. Make a walk around the perimeter of the property and grade the soil away from the foundation in any low spot you find. If there is a sump pump, keep an eye on it, it will be put to good use this winter.
Make the Call to the Pros
There are some jobs you can do, but for others you need the proper tools and know how. Recurring clogs or standing water that will not bide are reasons to call in some help.
We are licensed (WA Contractor #SOUTHWP807OJ), insured and a BBB-accredited company. South West Plumbing, Heating, Air & Electric has been of service in the Puget Sound since 1982 and we are on hand 24/7 at no extra charge for emergencies. All our work comes with a Guaranteed Satisfaction promise and we have financing options. Inquire as to Bill’s Comfort Club for some exclusive benefits and priority on the schedule.
Put off the next big storm at your peril. Get your drainage in order for the coming season and call on us at (253) 642-8810.
