Summer is coming and with it the heavy rain and thunderstorms. For homeowners that means more than just grabbing an umbrella – it’s time to think about how your home’s drainage system will handle the season. Proper preparation can save you from costly water damage, nasty backups and serious plumbing problems.
Your drains are your home’s first line of defense during a storm. When they’re working properly they channel water away from your property, keeping basements, yards and foundations dry. But if they’re clogged or compromised even a short downpour can be disaster.
In this article we’ll walk you through how to prepare your drains for summer storms so you can protect your home before the rain starts falling.
Why Drain Preparation Matters
Summer storms bring intense sudden rainfall that can overwhelm drainage systems especially if they haven’t been maintained. Without proper drainage:
Water can pool around your foundation causing cracks and leaks.
Roof gutters can overflow and damage siding or landscaping.
Clogged downspouts can push water back towards your home.
Sewer and storm drains can back up and flood basements and crawl spaces.
Preparing now reduces your risk of damage and helps your entire plumbing system perform better year round.
1. Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts are the first line of defense in directing rainwater away from your home. But if they’re filled with leaves, twigs and debris they can clog and overflow during a storm.
What to do:
Clean your gutters at least twice a year and more frequently if you have overhanging trees.
Flush out your downspouts with a garden hose to make sure they’re clear and flowing.
Check for loose brackets or sagging sections that might be impeding water flow.
Install gutter guards or screens to prevent future blockages.
A functioning gutter system moves water away from your home and reduces the load on ground level drains.
2. Inspect Outdoor Drains and Catch Basins
Ground level drains and catch basins are key players during storms. They’re designed to collect surface water and redirect it away from your home. But they’re also magnets for debris like grass clippings, mulch, dirt and trash.
What to do:* Remove the grate and scrape out debris inside the basin or drain.
Run water through the drain with a hose to make sure it’s draining fast.
Check for standing water that may indicate a clog further down.
If slow draining or blockage persists you may need hydro-jetting to clear it out.
Don’t ignore these drains—just one backed up catch basin can flood your entire yard or driveway.
3. Schedule a Sewer Line Inspection
If you’re connected to the municipal sewer line it’s especially important to prepare before storm season. Heavy rain can overload the system and if your sewer line is blocked or damaged it can cause sewage to back up into your home.
What to do:
Hire a plumber to do a camera inspection of your main sewer line.
Check for tree root intrusion, cracks or blockages.
If you’ve had sewer backups in the past consider installing a backwater valve to prevent reverse flow.
It’s better to catch issues early—nobody wants to deal with raw sewage in the middle of a storm.
4. Check Sump Pumps and Backup Systems
If you have a basement a working sump pump is your best defense during a storm. This device removes groundwater from under your foundation and pumps it away from your home.
Pre-storm checklist:
Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit—it should turn on immediately.
Make sure the discharge pipe is clear and drains away from your home’s foundation.
Check the float switch and check valve for proper operation.
Install a battery backup or water powered backup system in case of power outages during storms.
A failed sump pump during a storm is a common cause of basement flooding—don’t let yours be the reason you’re knee deep in water.
5. Seal and Grade Around the Foundation
Sometimes it’s not just about what’s underground. Proper grading and sealing around your home helps prevent excess water from even reaching your drains in the first place.
What to do:
Make sure the ground slopes away from your foundation, not towards it.
Fill in low spots near the base of your home with compacted soil or gravel.
Check for cracks in your foundation, sidewalks or driveways where water can seep in.* Apply sealant to visible gaps or trouble spots.
This will reduce the amount of water your drains have to handle during a storm.
6. For Sudden Storms
Florida and other southern states get fast and furious summer storms. Even with well-maintained drains, a sudden downpour can overwhelm the system.
Be prepared:
Keep sandbags or water barriers on hand to redirect water from low entry points.
Know where your home’s main shut-off valve is in case of emergency plumbing issues.
If you flood frequently consider a French drain or additional trench drains to improve runoff.
Act now and you’ll be ready when the forecast changes.
7. Maintain Your Drains Year Round
While preparing for summer storms is important, regular maintenance is the key to avoiding big problems. Consider these as part of your annual home care:
Schedule regular drain cleanings if you notice slow drains or bad odors.
Install drain covers or grates to keep debris out.
Don’t pour grease, oils or coffee grounds down your kitchen sink—they’ll harden and clog pipes over time.
Flush your home’s drainage system with hot water and baking soda every now and then to break down buildup.
Conclusion
Summer storms don’t have to mean flooded basements, damaged landscaping or expensive repairs. By preparing your drains properly you can keep your home dry, your plumbing working and your family safe no matter what the weather brings.
It’s all about preparation. Start now while the sun is shining—and when the storms roll in you’ll be ready.