
Top Myths About Backwater Valves Homeowners Still Believe
Backwater valves don’t get much attention until a disaster strikes. Most people only hear about them after a sewer backup
Interior basement waterproofing captures and redirects groundwater beneath your concrete slab before it can damage walls or flooring. Instead of costly exterior excavation, we cut a narrow trench around your basement perimeter, install a perforated weeping tile (also known as a perimeter drain), seal wall cracks, and tie everything into a sump pit. When groundwater accumulates, it flows into the weeping tile, travels to the sump basin, and is safely pumped away—keeping your basement dry, even during Niagara Falls’s heaviest rains.
Weeping tile installation Niagara Falls involves laying a perforated pipe wrapped in filter fabric in a gravel trench at the base of your foundation footing. This system:
● Relieves Hydrostatic Pressure : Prevents water from forcing its way through foundation cracks.
● Efficiently Channels Directs :moisture into your sump pit for removal.
● Protects Finishes: Stops water stains, mold, and rot on walls and floors.
● Extends Foundation Life: Reduces soil erosion around your footing.
Without weeping tile, hydrostatic pressure can build and cause leaks, bowing walls, or structural damage—making this component critical to any basement waterproofing system Niagara Falls.
Watch for these warning signs:
If you notice any, schedule a free waterproofing inspection Niagara Falls to protect your investment.
Other Solutions We Offer:
With more than 45 years in the industry, we bring unmatched expertise, hands-on knowledge, and proven reliability to every job.
Google-Guaranteed technicians trained in Ontario plumbing codes.
We’ve successfully completed over 3,500 drainage and waterproofing projects across the region—earning the trust of homeowners and businesses alike.
We install leading sewer backflow valves Niagara Falls designed for durability.
Detailed written estimates—no hidden fees.
Rapid flood cleanup and system repair.
A 1920s bungalow near Lundy’s Lane faced seasonal seepage through crumbling block walls. McDowell’s approach:
Result: Zero water intrusion over two years and a fully usable finished basement.
An interior foundation waterproofing Niagara Falls solution stops leaks at their source—without uprooting landscaping or driveways.
Blocks sewage backflow and protects your basement.
Eliminates exposure to harmful pathogens.
Avoid damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings.
Many insurers require backflow prevention for coverage.
Prevents expensive cleanup, mold remediation, and structural repairs.
Phone Number
Email Address
Call (905) 431-5612 now to arrange a detailed assessment of your interior waterproofing system—available 24/7 for emergency water removal.
Phone Number
Email Address
Posted on Mark Swan2025-08-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a sewer backup and pipe failure (the pipe is exposed in the basement, so we had sewage all over our basement). I called McDowell Drain Services based on other reviews, and he had sewerline camera equipment. Stuart McDowell, the owner, was at our house the next day to do a temporary fix on the pipe. The pipe had to be replaced, including a section of pipe outside of the house. He showed me the camera view from inside the pipe that confirmed the extent of the outside repair/replacement, to about 1.5m from the face of the building. His team came on the agreed-upon day and time. The team worked very hard and did an excellent job, including cleanup, all in a day, thus limiting downtime for our use of the sewer. I recommend McDowell Drain Services based on our experience.Posted on Antal Abel2025-08-25Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart and his team are the best. They are the only plumbers in all of Niagara to offer trenchless drain replacement saving me thousands on digging up my front lawn. He has also installed a sump pump system in my basement as well as a full bathroom rough-in and waste pump. The work was done professionally and in a timely manner. Stuart is quick to respond to my queries and takes pride in his work. There is no question- Stuart is the first guy I call if I ever have a plumbing issue, big or small!Posted on Chris Mansur2025-08-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. McDowell Drain & Waterproofing is my go-to company for any drainage issues. I wouldn’t call anyone else. This is now the second time I’ve used their services and both times the service was exceptional. Stuart is one of the nicest and most honest, knowledgeable, and reliable professionals I’ve ever dealt with. Both times that I had flooding issues, he was quick to respond, gave very reasonable quotes, finished on time, and provided services that exceeded my expectations. He also ensured I was happy with the service at the end. I’ve even had other contractors on unrelated issues tell me how good the quality of work is with the water mitigation system that he installed. 5/5 stars!Posted on Adina Aslam2025-07-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart was so helpful form the start. He not only gave me an accurate quote over the phone, but also followed through and charged me the exact amount that was quoted initially while other companies would charge a service fee to even come out and look at the issue. He provided same day service. He spent several hours in fixing the kitchen drain and cleaning it out, but charged a very low amount for his labour. He sent me photos of the issue, kept calling me throughout the process to explain the steps he was taking to fix it and then cleaned up before he left. It was a really tough mess stuck in the pipes that would’ve cost me twice to get it cleaned by someone else. I appreciate the honesty and excellent customer service he provided me with throughout the process. I can’t say enough good things about him. I will for sure be calling Stuart for any of the future plumbing needs. Thankyou for resolving this issue promptly and doing it so professionallyPosted on Ryan Siciliano2025-07-07Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a sewage issue and Stuart quickly answered the call and cleared the pipes. He then quickly located the problem. He assured me that he would soon have a crew out to resolve the issue. He told me I could call him if anything came up before workers arrived. Contacted me on which was a Sunday and said a crew would be out Monday morning which they were! Where the sewer needed to be replaced was below my porch into the basement. The crew Alek and Igor dug by hand. This was even more laborious job due to the thick clay in our area. The job was completed and work site cleaned up impeccably. I am thankful to Stuart for his immediate attention and honest assessment! Also for the great crew he provided. They were professional, respectful and cheerful through the duration of the grueling and unpleasant work they have to deal with. Thank you so much!! Update...Called Stuart as having sewer smell in basement. He came over immediately and found the issue. There was no cap on a drain from a previous installation that he hadn't done. Stuart went out to Home Depot purchased a drain cover, returned and replaced it! His immediate responses and kindness go above and beyond! I am so very grateful! Gaye SicilianoPosted on Lynn Harris2025-07-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. RESPONSIVE. KNOWLEDGEABLE. AFFORDABLE. AMAZING. I chose McDowell Drain and Waterproofing based on reviews, and I am happy to say I had the same great experience as many others! Stuart is a true pro - responded to our request right away, and came out the next day. He explained everything and showed images of the issue, and within the week his crew was working on our drain repair. His crew was amazing and went above and beyond our expectations. Highly recommended!Posted on Prabh Sandeep2025-06-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Highly recommend this waterproofing team in Niagara! They installed a sump pump and did exterior waterproofing using top-quality materials. Stu and his crew were knowledgeable, kind, and did an amazing job at a fair price. Thank you for saving our home!Posted on Prabhjot Kaur2025-06-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Best waterproofing contractors in the niagara region. They installed sump pump in my house in niagara and also did exterior waterproofing, they used high quality products and team was very compassionate and knowledgeable. They are expert at what they do, thank you stu for amazing work you did, you really saved us at a very reasonable price.Posted on Orma Bleeks2025-06-20Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart and his crew highly efficient, explained the process, dealt with complications at no extra cost and my lawn looks better than it did before. Also the least expensive quote. A true professional who takes pride in his work.Posted on Bones3802025-06-11Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart went above and beyond for me. It was a delight to work with an honest contractor for a change. He and his team were tidy, punctual and fast! As a bonus, he gave me the best quote! Highly, highly recommend McDowell Drain & Waterproofing.

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Typically 3–5 days, depending on basement size and complexity.
Once concrete cures, you can install flooring, drywall, and other finishes.
Annual sump pump maintenance is recommended, especially before heavy-rain seasons.
It addresses most groundwater leaks; severe exterior grading issues may require additional fixes.
Yes—it typically costs 30–50% less than full exterior excavation while offering equal protection.