Our drains work their hardest during the winter months so it’s important to keep them well maintained and in good working order. Heavy rain is pretty much a guarantee, so, if your drains can’t handle all that water flowing into them, flooding is likely to be the outcome – which cannot only cause damage to your property and gardens, but also be a hazard during freezing weather.
So, here are some top tips on keeping your drains happy and well-watered this winter season.
Do a self-inspection
Do you really know where all your drainage is around your home? Do you have any outbuildings, such as a garage? Does your driveway have a drain? If you’re not sure, do a walk around and inspect and look drains of all types. Are they clear of debris? It’s best to do this inspection while it’s raining so you see how freely water is draining because sometimes, they may appear fine on the surface, but it’s not until the water goes in that it becomes clear you have an issue.
Don’t forget to inspect up above too. When it’s raining, do you see anything overflowing up in your gutters? If you do, that sure implies you’ll need your gutters clearing. Overflowing water from your guttering can build up down below causing flooding as well as potential damage to your property.
Clean up
Once you have done your inspection, it’s time to get those gloves on and get a little mucky and give those drains some TLC! All those fallen leaves and dirt won’t clear themselves, so you may have to go a little under the surface by lifting grates and scraping out as much debris as you can. It’s a good idea to install additional drain guards on those areas that collect lots of leaves.
When cleaned up, don’t stop there, give your gardens, pathways, and driveway a good sweep and dispose of anything you pick up either in your garden waste or compost collection.
Blockages? Call Happy Drains
After your clean up, re-inspect your drains during the next rainfall and if you notice any water overflowing/not draining, there is strong chance you need professional help to shift and remove a blockage. Our friendly team of engineers can do this quickly and effectively with professional equipment. Call now on 07824 757572 and live flood free!
