How often should storm drains be cleaned? Storm drains are critical for preventing water from building up, so your property doesn’t flood. It is important to maintain your storm to make sure that excessive water is passed in the right direction to prevent flooding. This guide will provide some maintenance tips for your storm drain, including hiring a professional for installation.
Storm Drain Maintenance Tips
Here are some storm drain maintenance tips. These tips will help you keep your storm drain clean and well-maintained.
Check the Drain Grating Frequently
The drain grate should be checked often. Be sure to eliminate debris, such as leaves and sticks, from the top of the drain grating. Getting rid of it correctly will ensure it never returns. You may even want to consider putting a strainer on top of the grating to help collect any leaves or any other debris.
Additionally, you should frequently check for snow and ice during winter. This enables the water to drain freely once it has completely melted.
Don’t Unclog the Drain Yourself
Many types of toxins can enter the storm drain and cause it to clog. Clogged drains may even consist of paints, motor oil, fertilizers, dead animals, antifreeze, toxic chemicals, and more. This is why it is essential not to remove or clear any clogs on your own, even if you have the necessary tools and equipment.
Contact a Professional
As mentioned above, you should never attempt to unclog a grate on your own. Instead, you should contact a professional to do the job. There are many benefits of hiring a professional. They have the necessary equipment to take care of and eliminate clogs. They can also properly dispose of toxic chemicals. Also, professionals know how to utilize more than one technique to thoroughly clean your storm drain.
Professionals will utilize special equipment, including:
- High-powered water jetting: High-pressure jetting will eliminate blockages from your storm drain lines and eliminate any build-up of debris. Nearly every professional drain cleaner utilizes this piece of equipment.
- Vacuum trucks: Vacuum trucks may be used in certain cases. This tool will vacuum out the debris in the drain sump after a storm. Vacuum trucks are extremely expensive. This is the reason they are only owned by professionals.
- Clamshell trucks: Most cleaning companies, both private and municipal, have possession of clamshell bucket trucks. These are attachments containing a two-part bucket, also called a clamshell bucket. These buckets help to eliminate debris that is located at the bottom of the sump.
Result of Clogged Storm Drains
Once a storm drain becomes clogged, it will no longer be able to accumulate water. As a result, this can cause major property damage. If the water settles around your home, it could cost hundreds, if not thousands, in damage. Additionally, clogged storm drains that are left untreated can cause:
- Mold and water damage
- Flooding in your basement
- Damage to your landscaping