As Hurricane Florence approaches here are a few tips to check that your drainage systems on your residential property are working properly.
Gutters
Clean out gutters of all debris.
Downspout
Check that downspout extensions and pop up emitters are working properly and cleared of debris.
Catch Basin
Clear Catch Basins of debris, both in the box and on the lid.
Sandbags
Use Sandbags for low lying areas and areas that get overwhelmed like exterior stairwells leading down to a basement or doors (including garage doors that are low lying or flush with your patio or driveway). Sislers Stone on Lee Highway in Falls Church, VA sells sandbags.
Dry Creek Beds
Remove debris (such as limbs, leaves and mulch) from dry creek beds.
Window Well Covers
Check that all window well covers are attached, not broken, and can not be blown away in the wind. If you are worried, cover a piece of plywood with a tarp and lean against the house to cover the window well. Place sand bags around the base.
Interior Sump Pump
Interior sump pumps should have a backup battery in case of a power outage. Be sure to check that it works.
Exterior Gasoline Powered Generator
If you have an exterior gasoline powered generator, make sure it has new gasoline and test that it works a day or two in advance.
Yard Slope
If your yard slopes toward the house and water is laying against the house you will need to regrade your yard.
Tarps
Have tarps handy for emergency use, to cover a temporary hole in the roof or to shield water from coming into a specific point in the house. If you have any bare dirt or eroding soil, cover it with a tarp held down by heavy rocks to secure it.
