It might seem a little strange to talk about draining water from your property, given the impressive drought conditions that most of Utah is in. Still, drought conditions don’t mean a complete absence of water, which means that you need to make sure that your property can handle water or risk becoming damaged. So what can you do to help your property drain water effectively?
Gutter System
Your home’s first line of defense against water damage is its roof, with the gutter system close on its heels. A gutter system is supposed to collect water and direct it away from your home. Keep your gutters free and clear of debris by cleaning them out twice a year. Before summer and after fall are usually good times to do this. Make sure your downspouts extend at least 6 feet away from your home to keep water away from the foundation of your home.
A Rain Barrel
Given the drought conditions currently facing Utah, you might consider killing two birds with one stone, metaphorically speaking, by using a rain barrel. While some mistakenly believe that collecting rainwater isn’t legal in Utah, it was actually made legal in 2010 with Senate Bill 322. A rain barrel can be placed just about anywhere on your property to collect overhead water. This helps keep it from running to places where you don’t want it and allows you to store it to use at your discretion. Just make sure that wherever you choose to place your rain barrel is able to withstand the weight of it when it is full of water.
Landscape Grading
Landscape grading is one of the best things you can do to keep water from collecting around your house. Ideally, your landscaping will slope away from your house, guiding water away as well. If that isn’t the case, consider having your landscaping professionally regraded. While you’re at it, consider having a French drain installed to take your property’s water drainage to the next level.
Water damage can lead to some very costly repairs. Avoid having to shell the money out to deal with water damage and make sure your property is prepared to drain water effectively instead. If you aren’t sure if your property is currently up to the task, you can always schedule a home inspection with Behind the Scenes Home Inspections. Your gutter systems and landscape grading are just a couple of things we can check for you.
Wondering if you should be replacing your gutters? Click here to read about signs that Behind the Scenes Home Inspections believe mean that you should start thinking about replacing your gutter system.