Preventing spring water leaks

• Examine the condition of the roofing materials for signs of wear and aging (missing or loose shingles, buckling, upturned corners, etc.).
• Make sure there is enough gravel to fully protect the layer of asphalt. Gravel prevents black surfaces from overheating and reflects ultraviolet rays, preventing premature damage to the membrane.

If your roof needs to be replaced, there are some shingle options that are more resistant to harsh weather changes – some high-performance shingles are resistant to winds of up to 220 km/h, others such as Class 4 shingles that can withstand hailstones of up to 2 inches in diameter.

Roof maintenance can be dangerous. If necessary, seek the help of a professional.

During winter, the weight of the ice and snow may have weakened your gutters, and they may be blocked by various debris. This is why spring maintenance is important. Here's what to do:

• Remove leaves that have accumulated in the gutters.
• Check that the gutters are securely attached.
• Pour water into the gutters to ensure that there are no leaks and the water is escaping down the drainpipe.
• Make sure the downspouts divert water as far away from the foundation as possible.

Heavy rain can seep through any opening. That’s why you should do the following in the spring:

• Inspect the seals around doors and windows to make sure they are watertight.
• If needed, repair caulking and replace weatherstripping.
• Get rid of any debris from the window wells that could prevent water from properly draining away from them.

Once the ground has thawed, it’s very important to check the foundation’s condition to identify any problems and prevent damage due to water seepage.

• Thoroughly inspect the foundation, both inside and out. Have a specialist repair any cracks immediately.
• Seek professional advice if there are signs of efflorescence (white deposits), seepage or localized humidity. This can mean a foundation drain malfunction (e.g. clogged drain).

The accumulation of leaves or other debris can prevent the drain from working well. What should you do?

• Clear the grate of the drain in front of the door of any debris (e.g., leaves, ice, snow) in order to allow water to escape.
• Also clean the drain underneath the grate so that the drain is not obstructed.
• Move the gutter drainpipes that empty onto the slope of the garage entryway to prevent the drain from becoming overloaded.

The backwater valve is part of the plumbing system and is located in the basement. Its simple open-close flap does an important job: making sure the municipal sewage system doesn't back up into the drains. You'll need to clean it as part of your seasonal routine in order for it to work properly. Here's how:

• Remove the cover and unscrew the access plug (note: if you have a cast iron valve with a bolted cover, it's best to have a plumber do it).
• Make sure the flap opens and closes freely. Remove any debris and check the condition of the gasket.
• Replace the flap and make sure there's nothing preventing it from opening and closing.
• Screw the access plug back on tightly and replace the cover.

These precautions will help you welcome spring and avoid unpleasant surprises. But, for peace of mind, it’s best to be properly insured as well. Find out about the insurance coverage available from Desjardins Insurance.

Also find out about the different water damage protection systems and save on your insurance premium.