Protect Your Property From Runoff

7/22/2020 (Permalink)

Storm water runoff is absorbed by soil, evaporates into the atmosphere or flows into bodies of water, such as streams, lakes or rivers. But on your Newton, MA commercial or residential property, storm water runoff can quickly overwhelm natural and man-made systems, leading to flooding and property damage!

The good news is that there are ways to manage storm water runoff on your property include planting trees and other vegetation, building rain gardens and installing rain barrels or cisterns to collect roof water. Additional aspect to consider when managing runoff that can prevent expensive water damage after a storm.

Evaluate Your Property

During or right after a storm, go outside and observe how water flows on your property. Note the different grades and slopes and whether they divert the flowing water away from your home. Look for low spots where water pools and identify any steep slopes that show signs of surface erosion.

Add Permeable Surfaces

Rain that falls on roofs, driveways, patios, roads and other impervious areas moves at greater speeds and can pool, eventually flooding your home. Consider replacing impervious areas with water-absorbing surfaces, such as permeable paving stones or pavers.

Direct Water Away from Your Home

Your roof gutter downspouts, parking lots, driveways, walkways and patios should direct runoff away from your property to areas that can absorb or slow the surface flow, such as landscaped areas. If asphalt, cement, or other impervious surfaces have a negative pitch back toward the property, consider installing trench or area drains to divert water away from the property.

Keep Your Basement Dry

Basements that are prone to water intrusion should have a water collection system in place, such as a sump pump system with a battery backup. Consider elevating your property's mechanical systems or installing curbs around finished areas and storage areas.

Be Aware of High Water Tables

Have your sewer or septic system checked by a professional. If the groundwater rises too high, it can affect the efficiency and operation of the system, which may lead to a sewer backup or waste leaching above the ground or back into your property.

Seal Your Envelope

Make sure that your property’s exterior—its envelope—is maintained, including roofing, flashings, weather barriers, windows, doors and sealants.

We’re Here for You

The Disaster Remediation Teams at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley has specialized training and experience in natural disaster and storm damage cleanup. When a storm damages your commercial or residential property call the experts at SERVPRO of Newton/Wellesley, (617) 332-9000. We will make it "Like it never even happened."