May 2024 - Draincom

What is a Backwater Valve?

A backwater valve, sometimes referred to as a sewer check valve or backflow valve, is a device installed in your sewer line that prevents wastewater from re-entering your home. This small yet crucial component is designed to close automatically if the sewer system begins to back up. This effectively blocks the reverse flow of water, safeguarding your basement from flooding and potential damage that could cost you thousands of dollars.

Why Install a Backwater Valve in Your Home?

The primary reason to install a backwater valve is to protect your property from the high costs and inconveniences associated with sewer backups and basement flooding. Here’s why it’s essential for homes in Toronto and the GTA:

Climate Impact: With heavy rainfall becoming more common, the risk of municipal sewers overflowing increases, leading to potential backflows.

Older Home Vulnerability: Many older homes were not built with backwater valves, placing them at higher risk for sewage backups.

Financial Protection: The aftermath of a flood can be financially devastating. Installing a backwater valve is a proactive step that can prevent such expenses.

How Does a Backwater Valve Work?

The backwater valve is installed directly onto your main sewer line. Under normal conditions, it remains open, allowing wastewater to exit your home freely. However, if the flow reverses due to a backup in the municipal line, the valve shuts immediately, preventing sewage from entering and flooding your home.

Installation should be done by a professional to ensure it is correctly placed and functioning. Make sure the contractor you choose is licensed and experienced with backwater valve installation and basement flood prevention. The city of Toronto offers a subsidy or rebate for backwater valve installation and one of the requirements for getting it is that you have an licensed contractor like Draincom do the installation.

Understanding the Toronto Rebate Program

To encourage residents to prevent flooding in their basements, the City of Toronto offers a rebate program that will cover part of the cost of installing a backwater valve if you qualify. It provides financial assistance to homeowners looking to minimize their risk of flooding, making the installation more affordable. Installation or replacement of backwater valve, and Installation of an alarm for a backwater valve are covered by this subsidy program. Sump pump installation and sump pump alarm installation are also covered.

Choosing the Right Service for the Installation of a Backwater Valve

Selecting the right professional for backwater valve installation is crucial. Choosing a contractor that is not familiar with basement flood protection and wet basement repair can end up costing you more money. You want an experienced team that understands the local regulations and how the city rebate works. And you want a basement waterproofing company that provides excellent customer support, even after the installation is done. One such company, with more than 20 years of experience in Toronto and the GTA is Draincom and they offer a free, no-obligation basement inspection and give you a quote. They will provide you with all the paperwork you need for applying for the rebates from the city. Call 905-238-6800 to schedule your free inspection.

Backwater Valves are a Wise Investment

With the support of city rebates and professional installation services, it’s a crucial element of basement flood prevention, ensuring that your home remains dry and damage-free even during extreme weather events. For expert advice and professional backwater valve installation services, contact Draincom at 905-238-6800 or by using this form. We’re here to help.

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Basement flooding after a heavy rain solution — Free basement inspection and quote. Call **905-238-6800**.

Basement floods after heavy rain can turn your basement into an unsettling nightmare. It’s a story many homeowners in Toronto and the GTA know all too well. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced this as well. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through eliminating the problem for you. Draincom offers effective, affordable solutions and preventative measures for keeping your basement dry.

Understanding Why Basements Flood After Heavy Rain

First off, why does this happen? Basements flood after a heavy rain for a variety of reasons—poor drainage, clogged gutters, or cracks in the foundation, to name a few. When there is a heavy downpour, water needs somewhere to go, and unfortunately, that somewhere is often your basement. Identifying the specific cause of your basement flooding after rain is the first step toward a dry, happy home. A free inspection is the first step. With more than 20 years of basement flood prevention, Draincom will help you solve the problem. Call us today at 905-238-6800 to schedule an appointment. You may even qualify for the City of Toronto’s Basement Flooding Protection Program.

Immediate Steps to Take When Your Basement Floods

Alright, the basement’s flooded. What now? Don’t panic! There are immediate actions you can do yourself to mitigate the damage.

First, ensure it’s safe to enter the area. Appliances and other electrical devices directly in the standing water can be dangerous. Turn off the electricity before you enter.
Get some protective gear. Rubber boots, rubber gloves and protective eyewear help you avoid injury or exposure to mold.
Begin removing water, drying out the space, and salvaging what you can. Anything that has been soaked for 48 hours should likely be thrown out because mold may have started to grow.
Pull up carpet if you have any. You need to make sure the underside of the carpet is thoroughly dry before putting it back down.
Your sump pump should be sufficient for removing the water even if it takes a little time. Draincom can help you with installing the right sump pump for your basement.

Remember, quick response is key to minimizing damage and recovering from basement floods after a heavy rain. Mold can be a bigger problem than just the flooding.

Long-Term Solutions for Preventing Basement Flooding

Now, for the long game. Preventing basement flooding after rain involves a mix of home maintenance and upgrades. Ensuring proper drainage around your home is essential to preventing water seeping into your basement. Installing a proper sump pump is another crucial step. There are obviously a lot of other basement flood prevention steps you can take and a free inspection will help you decide what to do in your unique situation. These steps can significantly reduce the risk of future floods and help deal with floods when they happen.

Installation of a Sump Pump

Investing in a sump pump is a game-changer for basements prone to flooding. It’s designed to automatically pump water out of your basement, keeping the area dry during even the heaviest rain. Installation and maintenance of a sump pump is necessary for anyone with a basement. In Toronto and the GTA, there is enough rain that you are always at risk of your basement flooding. It’s usually a matter of when rather than if your basement will flood after a heavy rain. Without a sump pump, how will you get rid of that water?

Capping and Pipe Severance

Another key strategy is capping and pipe severance. Disconnecting your home’s downspouts from the sewer system and properly capping them prevents water from pooling around your home. It’s a preventive measure that will significantly minimize the risk of basement flooding.

Installation of a Backwater Valve

Consider installing a backwater valve. A backwater valve prevent sewage in an overloaded main sewer line from backing up into your basement. It’s bad enough if your basement floods after rain, but for it to flood with sewage is a much bigger issue. It’s an important line of defense for homes at risk of basement floods after heavy rain.

How Draincom Can Help

Draincom specializes in basement waterproofing and plumbing solutions, We have over 20 years of experience installing sump pumps, capping and pipe severance, installation of backwater valves and more. Draincom offers services that qualify for the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. This means you can not only protect your home but also potentially get a rebate on the cost of these installations. Call 905-238-6800 or fill out this form to schedule a free inspection and quote.

Month: May 2024

Backwater Valve Installation in Toronto – Why is it important?