Spring Melt & Runoff!

It’s been a long cold, snowy winter but it looks like Spring may finally be starting to arrive!

Above freezing temperatures are expected in the current long-range forecast with little chance of re-freezing. With the spring melt starting all this snow will start turning into water, and we have a lot of snow that’s going to melt! Although most of us are welcoming spring with open arms, the spring melt can also create issues.

The Town’s Public Works Department is busy this week getting prepared. Currently, the culverts are being thawed to ensure they are open to aid in proper drainage. Snow removal in also in progress to remove some of the big piles of snow. They will continue to monitor things on a daily basis.

Are you ready for the spring thaw too??

Remember that as a property owner you should be preparing and ensuring your home is protected. Here are a few precautionary measures you can take to protect your home:

Test your sump pump – the job of a sump pump is to keep the area under your home dry. If your pump fails, there is nothing to prevent the water from building up under your home which can lead to flooding or foundation damage.

Roof and gutters – remember that water damage can strike from above too. If you can, rake any residual snow off your roof. Also, check your gutter to see if there are any blockages due to ice dams or debris. You want melting snow to have a quick and clear path off your roof.

Extend downspouts – getting the snow off your roof will mean there isn’t as much dripping and draining, which can keep the perimeter of your house from getting as saturated with water as it would be otherwise; however, it’s never a bad idea to have extenders for your downspouts.

Shovel snow away from the side of your house – if there are mounds of snow built up against your home, you should spend some time to clean up those areas.
Also, make sure you are checking your basement for signs of moisture or flooding a few times a day—especially on heavy melt days. You want to be able to spring into action if something goes wrong.

Septic Tanks – Ensure the snow is cleared around your septic tank, Water shouldn’t be going into your septic tank but if you find your filling faster then normal, this may be a sign of other damage that the property owner may have to take and you may need to have an inspection done.

Contact your insurance company at the first signs of damage.

By following the tips listed above, you should be able to avoid the threats of the spring melt and get beyond them to enjoy a brighter, warmer season.

https://www.sgicanada.ca/news?title=protect-your-basement-from-flooding 

https://www.sgicanada.ca/news?title=thaw-safely--tips-to-protect-your-home-in-the-spring-melt