Flooding is a major concern for many residential and commercial properties throughout Vancouver. With the help of heavy rainfall, outdated drainage systems, and the impact of the region’s coastal climate, flood damage can occur rapidly and without much notice. If left untreated for an extended period of time, flood damage may lead to serious issues such as mould growth, unpleasant odours, higher repair bills, and worse.
By learning more about the most frequent causes of flooding and how to prevent them, you’ll have a better understanding of how to protect your property and alleviate some of the stress associated with flooding.
Why Flood Damage Is Common in Vancouver
Because of its wet climate—particularly from fall through winter—Vancouver receives a great deal of rain that can overwhelm its drainage systems. Heavy rains can lead to water entering homes and cause problems for homeowners in some areas where many old buildings were built before these higher volumes were created. During a large storm, more homeowners will experience flooding in their basements or ground floors in these locations compared to newer buildings that were built for higher volumes of rainfall.
In addition, the city’s coastal location is a contributing factor to the propensity for flood damage. With high tides and storms raising water levels in the surrounding area, many areas will be affected at the same time, which increases the likelihood of flooding combined with the rainfall.
Heavy Rainfall and Storms
Heavy rainfall is one of the main contributors to the flood damage that occurs in Vancouver. When rain comes down too quickly for the ground and drainage systems to absorb it, the excess water begins to pool around structures. From there, the pooled water can get inside through cracks in the foundation, the basement windows, and the doors.
Storms can also provide water penetration to roofs and gutters. If the shingles are missing or the gutters are clogged, the rain will leak into the ceilings and walls. Over time, the moisture that accumulates behind the walls could eventually weaken the structural integrity of your home and create a long-term issue.
Blocked or Damaged Drainage Systems
A significant contributor to flooding is blocked drains. Water cannot drain effectively due to blockages from trash, debris, leaf litter, etc. When a drainage pipe becomes blocked, water cannot drain and will build up inside a home. This may result in a sewer pipe being blocked or broken, causing dirty water to back up into drains, tubs, toilets, and sinks. Sewer backups not only damage property but also present serious health risks due to the possibility of spreading harmful bacteria or odours.
Plumbing Leaks and Pipe Bursts
Damaged or older pipe infrastructure can present a significant risk factor for indoor flooding. A small leak may exist for an extended period of time before being detected and can cause extensive damage to walls and floors. During winter months, pipes can be subject to freezing, which will ultimately result in the pipe bursting and releasing large amounts of water in a very short time period.
Washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters all have the potential to fail or leak. When appliances do leak or break, they can cause rapid flooding within rooms, particularly when occupants are not home.
Basement Flooding Issues
In Vancouver, the lower levels of homes (basements) are often susceptible to floods due to the natural tendency for water to seek the lowest point in a space. In addition, most basements are below the ground level, making them an easy target for flood damage. Many basements have poor waterproofing, weak or broken sump pumps, or cracks in the foundation walls, all contributing factors to the potential flood risk.
When there is extended heavy rainfall, the groundwater levels will rise. As the groundwater rises, so does the water pressure on the basement walls and floors, ultimately forcing water into the basement if it is not protected properly from flooding. Once a basement has been flooded, it is often subject to flooding again.
Simple Tips to Prevent Flood Damage
Regular maintenance is the beginning of flood prevention. Regular cleaning of gutters and downspouts allows for the free flow of rainwater away from your house and directs rainwater away from the foundation of your house. Downspouts should direct rainwater at least 6 feet away from the foundation of your house to reduce the chance of rainwater pooling in your yard.
It is important to regularly check for cracks in walls, floors, and foundations and repair them to prevent water from entering your home during periods of heavy rainfall. Cracks as small as 1/16 inch (1.6 mm) can allow considerable amounts of rainwater to build up inside your home.
Improving Drainage and Plumbing Safety
Having good drainage on your property is key to avoiding flooding. It’s important to create a slope away from your home to ensure that water does not accumulate near the foundation. Another way to keep rainwater away from basement windows is through the use of window well covers.
Your plumbing system should be inspected periodically. By replacing old pipes and fixing small leaks early, you can avoid the possibility of larger amounts of water entering your home during a flood. The installation of a backwater valve will keep sewage out of your home.
Preparing for Emergencies
Floods can occur despite all precautions having been taken, so being prepared can lessen devastation and facilitate quick action. For example, knowing where the main shut-off valve is located on your water system can help save time during a leak or burst pipe.
Additionally, placing important items higher than ground level in the basement, as well as utilizing watertight containers, can protect them. By checking both your basement and drainage areas after heavy rainfalls, you will be able to identify potential issues before they escalate.
When Professional Help Is Needed
Rapid response is critical after any flood-related incident occurs. Water and humidity will contribute to potential growth of mould within a short period. Professionals that provide flood restoration services use advanced tools to remedy this situation by extracting excess water, drying affected spaces, and mitigating the possibility of further damage.
In addition to this, experts are able to inspect areas of your home that may contain concealed water or humidity, thereby assuring you that your entire residence is entirely secure and restored, rather than just on the outside.
Trusted Flood Restoration Support
Cactus Carpet Care is the name to trust for effective carpet cleaning and restoration services. With years of experience in water damage, our team will protect your home from mould while returning it to its original condition as quickly and safely as possible. We have the right equipment and proven techniques to be able to clean, dry, and make your home comfortable once again.
