Basement Flood Prevention - Backwater Check Valves
Challenge
Areas in southwestern Ontario have recently experienced record-breaking rainfall totals. The ensuing devastating flooding in homes is a result in part due to overtaxed municipal sanitary systems.
This flooding not only results in stress, time and expense but also affects the health and enjoyment of the home and an increase in insurance premiums and future coverage limitations.
Some local governments have initiated flood prevention subsidy programs to help encourage homeowners to protect their homes and contents from damage.
Solution
A common component of these flood prevention subsidy programs is the proper installation of a backwater check valve.
These devices are designed to allow water to flow in only one direction: away from a home. The “check valves” or “backwater valves” can help decrease the risk of sewage backup when installed and maintained properly.
A quick overview of the installation steps:
- Check sewer line for structural integrity.
- Determine the location of the backwater valve, to ensure all plumbing of the home is protected from sewer backups.
- A section of the sewer line is removed to allow for the proper installation of the backwater valve.
- The valve is installed on the sewer line and sealed.
- Inspected by the local building inspector to ensure the correct valve was installed in the correct place, and within the permit.
- The area around the value is backfilled.
- The housing of the valve is installed for access and maintenance.
- The area around the housing is backfilled.
- The concrete floor is poured and smoothed.
Advanced Basement Systems has repaired and inspected hundreds of homes in southwestern Ontario related directly to these subsidy programs. Each program is unique and has very specific criteria which must be followed, properly documented, submitted and reviewed appropriately – including the proper permits.
If you’ve experienced flooding in your home and would like an estimate to help prevent future flooding, please reach out to us: 1-800-638-7048
Project Summary
Inspector: Bryan
Project Foreman: Kevin
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