Why You Need a Backwater Valve
A backwater valve is the last line of defense from allowing water to enter your home if your sewers are backing up. Every home drainage system is different, so it is important to discuss your plans for changing your current system. Once you’ve decided to proceed with the installation of a backwater valve, our technician will break through the basement concrete floor and dig down to the sewer lateral. This is the pipe that sinks, tubs and toilet wastewater flows through to the sewer. A short piece of lateral is cut out, the backwater valve is then lowered and secured. It will be necessary to disconnect the weeping tile from the sanitary sewer and possibly install a sump pit and pump. New concrete is poured to fill in the basement floor.
The back water valve is designed to close if water ever starts to back up. There are two floatation devices on either side of a gate that will push it closed to prevent sewer water from re-entering the home. When the water pressure is released, the gate will drop back down flat and water will smoothly flow out again. The clear top on the valve allows regular checks to make sure it isn’t clogged. The top should be tightly secured and regular inspection by a plumber is also recommended.
Another area of concern may come from gutter downspouts that are connected to your sewer lateral. Disconnecting and extending them two meters away from the foundation will help prevent excess water from backing up during rainstorms..
Owners can avoid the following basement problems by insuring everything is working correctly. A backwater valves play a crucial role in protecting your basement from flooding..
Common problems due to poor backwater valve installation:
- Clogged basement drains
- Basement flooding
- Basement leaks
- Foundation maintenance