Storm Season Prep: Protecting Your Home and Property from Water Damage

In New England, storm season can mean heavy rain, high winds, and even the occasional nor’easter. While you can’t control the weather, you can control how water flows across your property—and that makes all the difference when it comes to protecting your home, your foundation, and even your septic system.

Here are some simple steps every homeowner or property owner should take before the next big storm.

1. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear

Clogged gutters overflow, dumping water right against your foundation. Over time, that leads to basement leaks, erosion, or even structural damage.

• Clean gutters at least twice a year (spring and fall).

• Make sure downspouts are free of debris and extend at least 5–10 feet away from the house.

2. Direct Water Away from Foundations and Septics

Water should never pool near your foundation or septic system.

• Use extensions or splash blocks to carry water downslope.

• Regrade soil if needed so it slopes away from the house.

• Avoid routing roof runoff into septic areas—excess water can overwhelm the system.

3. Check Driveways, Walkways, and Yard Drainage

Low spots in pavement or lawns can become catch basins for stormwater. Over time, that pooling water can cause sinkholes, frost heave, or slippery algae growth.

• Fill low areas with compacted gravel or soil.

• Consider installing a yard drain or French drain to move water underground and out to a safe discharge point.

4. Inspect Culverts and Drains

If your property has a culvert under a driveway or a drain near the street, check it before storms hit. Blocked culverts cause flooding fast, and towns often expect property owners to keep them clear.

How Amex Construction Can Help

Sometimes small fixes aren’t enough. If you’re dealing with repeated flooding, erosion, or septic system stress, it may be time for a bigger solution. Amex Construction can help with:

• Site grading and re-sloping to move water safely away from buildings.

• Drainage system installation (French drains, curtain drains, catch basins).

• Stone, gravel, or swales to slow and redirect water flow.

• Septic system protection by controlling surface runoff before it reaches the leach field.

By managing stormwater correctly, you’re not just protecting your property—you’re adding long-term value and peace of mind.

Final Thought

Water always finds the path of least resistance. With the right preparation and a little planning, you can make sure that path isn’t through your basement, driveway, or septic system.

Amex Construction has decades of experience keeping Massachusetts properties dry and resilient. Before the next big storm, reach out—we’ll help you prepare today so you can stay dry tomorrow.