Basement flooding is one of the most common yet devastating risks for Windsor homeowners. Fortunately, protecting your home from this threat is as simple as installing a reliable sump pump. Today, we’ll discuss why this area is so prone to flooding and how your sump pump works to keep that floodwater out of your home.
Exploring Windsor’s High Flood Risk
Between the Great Lakes on either side of us and the Detroit River running along the border we share with the US, Windsor is surrounded by water. This leaves local homeowners particularly vulnerable to flooding. A heavy rainstorm or even sustained strong winds can quickly cause tides to rise and water to build up in the streets, eventually seeping through the doors, windows, and other points of entry into homes like yours.
Once the water gets in, it’s only a matter of time before it causes extensive (and expensive) damage. It can short out electronics, ruin wood floors and furniture, promote mold growth, or even cause cracks in your home’s foundation. For example, Windsor’s historic 2017 floods occurred after 290mm of rainfall and caused an estimated $124 million in damages.
How Sump Pumps Protect You
Sump pumps are your backup protection against floods and water damage. If enough water gets past your gutters and weather-stripping and makes it into the basement of your home, your sump pump will push it out into your yard or storm drain.
If your sump pump is working properly, it should accomplish this task fast enough to prevent most water damage. Don’t assume that this will be the case if you haven’t had yours serviced in a while, though. Sump pumps need maintenance just like any other plumbing system. Getting yours looked at by a professional at least once every few years is the best way to make sure it can still do its job. If your pump is old and even the professionals can’t get it up to speed, consider replacing it with a new high-efficiency model you know you can count on.
Keep Floods at Bay with Help from Fowler
Sump pumps can only do their job if they’re installed and serviced before the floodwaters rise. If you’re interested in getting a new sump pump placed in your home or want to get your existing system checked, it’s time to call Fowler Plumbing. Contact us and let us help you protect your home today.