subject: Maintenance of Stormwater Systems in the Home [print this page] It is important that our home has efficient water management system that would keep our family safe as well as help protect the environment from pollution and permanent damage. You do not need to be a professional at handling stormwater to manage your home. You just have to make sure that the gutters, downspouts and landscapes are maintained properly so that it cannot make damage into your home.
One of the signs that you need to watch out, which could tell that there are structural damages, would be the presence of moisture and/or standing water in your house. This would risk the growth of molds that poses a great danger to you and your family. There will also be pooling of water that can seep on your basements and crawl spaces.
You must realize that improper direction of water will not only damage your own home but will damage the neighboring structures as well. The presence of spillover will tell you that your gutters are clogged as well as your downspouts, which can lead to rotting of siding, eaves and shingles that will eventually erode the ground that is directly below it.
Therefore, as part of the efficient stormwater systems, you need to clean your gutters at least twice within a year. Make sure that they are tilted in a way that the water will be directed to downspouts. Make sure that your gutters and downspouts are rust-free. It should also be inspected for leaks and holes. The roof flashing should also direct water into the gutters. Make sure there are no low areas or sagging.
The downspouts should also be checked for clogging as well as the elbows or bends. Always clear it from any possible obstructing materials. All parts of the downspouts should be secured and fastened together. It is a necessary thing needed to maintain an efficient stormwater system.
Another element in the stormwater systems is the landscape. The slope of the ground should always be away from structures. Do not allow build up of soil, bark, woodpiles on the side of the structures. Vegetation is important to slow down the flow of water. Drain water into areas that directly and greatly absorbs water.
