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Prepare for Spring Thaw

In southern Canada, we are just beginning to experience a rapid thaw.  Rain and thunderstorms raged last night and the +2C temperature today is resulting in a quick melt of the snow and ice that has plagued us for the last two months.  Couple this thaw with the Ice Quakes we have experienced since December bringing the risk of foundation cracking – we need to be proactive and monitor our homes to minimize damage. 

Taking responsibility to avoid damage is even more critical now that many insurance companies have notified policy holders that flood coverage has been significantly reduced, and in many cases – sewage back-up coverage withdrawn completely.

After much research and conference with other homeowners, this list seems like great advice to follow to be as proactive as possible during this thaw:
  1. Clear snow and ice away from sewer grates on your street.  If you can’t remember where they are, use Google Earth to search for your address and pan your block for the locations of your closest grates.
  2. Check all eaves downspouts to ensure they are not leaking or have become separated at the seams after carrying the weight of ice for several weeks.  Plastic downspout extensions can be purchased at your local hardware store to either replace the lower piece or extend the final opening farther away from your home’s foundation  – in a downward direction (and away from your neighbour).
  3. Keep an eye on your foundation.  Take regular walks around the outside of your home looking for any sign of cracking.  If you find one – call a professional!
  4. Scan your basement.  It will be harder to see in finished basements but watch for signs of water damage from any external walls and if found – call a professional!!  Mold is a dangerous hazard to the health of your family.
  5. Secure your basement sewage drain.  Purchase a fitting at the local hardware that allows water to drain down and includes a valve that does NOT allow the sewage to rise up through the same drain.
  6. Buy ice-melt/salt NOW.  In our area, freezing temperatures will begin again in two days after the melt.  All of the water will turn to ice.  Get the jump on local stock before others in your area think of it.
    Thank you @googleearth


In my house, we are as prepared as possible.  While my husband thinks I am being excessively cautious, I know he will thank me for my efforts when our treasured home evades harm from this rapid ‘spring’  thaw (in February)!!
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