Bad drainage is one of the most common reasons for serious water damage in basements. Even if you have taken other basement waterproofing measures such as installing a sump pump and having a waterproofing membrane installed, your basement will still experience issues if the gutters and downspouts are not draining water effectively.
There are several things that you can do to improve the effectiveness of your roof drainage system. These include:
- Inspecting downspouts and gutters regularly
Gutters and downspouts can become clogged with debris such as dead leaves and gravel. They can also get damaged over time. Clogging and damage can interfere with the functioning of the roof drainage system. It is therefore important to inspect this system regularly. Two times a year is the recommended minimum. It is best to inspect the system in the fall when the debris is a big threat and once before spring.
- Cleaning gutters regularly
Have your gutters cleaned regularly, this will help to get rid of debris that may have collected in the gutters that may cause clogging. A clear gutter will be more effective for drainage of runoff.
- Having gutter guards installed
Gutter guards are designed to allow runoff from the roof to drain into the gutters but prevent large solid masses such as leaves, twigs or other debris from getting into the gutters. This will help to keep your gutters clear and prevent them from becoming clogged and water overflowing. This will also help to reduce the need for cleaning your gutters.
- Having your downspouts extended
A roof drainage system is designed to help prevent water from draining near the foundation and causing an increase in hydrostatic pressure against the foundation wall. A short downspout that drains at the foundation, therefore, defeats the purpose of the system in the first place.
If your downspout drains near the foundation, have it extended to drain several feet away from the foundation. A professional basement waterproofing contractor can help you identify solutions for extending your downspouts that will be effective and aesthetically pleasing.
- Installing a rainwater collection solution
This may be in the form of a rain barrel, rain garden or cistern. This will help to keep water away from your foundation. It also comes with the added bonus of providing you with water that can be used for landscaping or other applications.
Your roof drainage system is an important part of your basement waterproofing system. It is worth spending some time and money to ensure it is working effectively.
Contact the Professionals at Ohio State Waterproofing! 330-467-1055
Ohio State Waterproofing has provided quality service with over 80,000 successful waterproofing and foundation repair installations and satisfied customers since our inception in 1978.
Ohio State Waterproofing’s philosophy for success is to provide honest, courteous and guaranteed service to every customer. Our reputation reflects this. Our well-trained waterproofing technicians are dedicated to complete customer satisfaction. This is achieved through fast, efficient processes as well as teamwork throughout this organization. You will always find a friendly representative willing to meet your needs at Ohio State Waterproofing.
We are a full service company that handles problems ranging from patching cracks to rebuilding basements. In addition, we hold three patents related to waterproofing that make us unique in the industry. These patents and our experience allow us to be able to do what every other waterproofer can do, but no one else can do what we do.
We are actively involved in the industry and community, including the National Association of Waterproofing Contractors, BHA, NARI, NAHB, NHIA, the BIA, the FHA and a number of consumer advocacy groups, as well as playing leading roles in a number of charitable functions.
But, most importantly, our highest degree of praise comes from the thousands of referrals we get from satisfied customers. Together they’ve made us a leader in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industry.