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Spring thaw: Household water problems to avoid when snow melts and rain pelts The change in season can lead to many avoidable water problems in your home. Cities and towns across Canada can get up to 100 mm of rain and/or 40 cm of snow in the month of March alone. Therefore, it's important to take precautions early on in the season to keep from getting waterlogged. Here are a few tips from The Home Depot Canada to get your home ready for the spring thaw: · Rain gutter rehab During a storm, rain gutters drain water and additional runoff away from the house. By ensuring that gutters are clear to do their job you will protect siding, windows, doors, and foundations from water damage and help prevent flooding in the basement. First, scoop out loose debris like leaves etc. Then blast out the gutters with a hose. Clear any obstructions in drainpipes to maintain water flow and repair leaks. Finally, re-align sagging gutters. · Get out the shovel...again Water from melting snow may result in a wet basement if allowed to run down along the basement wall. Moving the snow just three to five feet from the house will reduce water problems. · Sump pump prep If you have a sump pump in your home, examine and clean both the pump and pit, then test your pump by pouring water into the pit. Like the gutters, make sure the discharge hose carries the water several feet away from the house to a well drained area. ·