As April settles into the Niagara Region, homeowners from St. Catharines to Welland, Grimsby, and Niagara Falls are beginning to notice the aftermath of a long Canadian winter. With snowmelt, April rain, and rising groundwater levels, your home’s plumbing and drainage systems are being put to the test—right now.

At McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, we’ve been helping Niagara homeowners for over 45 years, and April is when many of our emergency calls come in. Here’s what you should check now to avoid costly plumbing disasters later.

1. Is Your Sump Pump Keeping Up?

By April, your sump pump has already been working hard for weeks. If it’s noisy, constantly running, or has stopped working entirely—don’t wait.

April Action Tips:
– Check for standing water in the pit (a red flag).
– Test by pouring in water to activate the pump.
– Ensure the discharge pipe outside your home isn’t frozen or clogged.

Fun Fact: A well-maintained sump pump can last 10 years. But if yours is over 7, it might be time for a McDowell inspection.

2. Backwater Valves Need a Spring Checkup

Backwater valves are essential in April when municipal systems are overloaded with stormwater. If this device fails, sewage can back up into your home—especially in flood-prone areas like Niagara Falls, Thorold, and Fort Erie.

Check for:
– Slow drainage
– Gurgling sounds in basement drains
– Foul sewer odors

If your backwater valve hasn’t been cleaned this year, call us before the next rainfall.

battling wet basements or a business protecting a commercial space, McDowell has your back.

3. Watch for Window Well Leaks

Heavy April rainfall + thawed soil = water pooling in or around window wells. This can leak directly into your basement, especially if the weeping tile isn’t connected or clogged.

Check for:
– Water stains below basement windows
– Cracks in foundation near window wells
– Pooling water outside windows

Pro Tip: McDowell installs drain-connected window wells to protect your foundation.

4. Sewer Lines May Be Cracked or Root-Infested

Spring is when tree roots begin to grow aggressively—and they love warm, moist sewer lines. If you’ve noticed slow drains or repeated clogs in April, your underground pipes might be compromised.

Our Solution:
We offer non-invasive sewer camera inspections and trenchless sewer replacement, which means no digging up your driveway or lawn.

5. Look for Basement Moisture Clues

April is mold season. Even tiny leaks from foundation cracks, floor joints, or old waterproofing can lead to musty smells, swollen baseboards, or peeling paint.

If you see:
– Warped drywall or baseboards
– Mold or mildew around the floor
– Damp basement air

It’s time for a professional waterproofing assessment.

Why Niagara Homeowners Choose McDowell

– 45+ years of trusted local experience
– Google Guaranteed & fully insured
– Emergency calls answered 24/7
– Experts in sump pumps, basement waterproofing, drain repair, trenchless sewer replacement, and more
– Proudly serving: St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, Thorold, Fort Erie, Grimsby, Niagara on the Lake, Lincoln, West Lincoln, Pelham, Wainfleet, Port Colborne

Conclusion

April Showers Shouldn’t Flood Your Home.

Call McDowell Drain & Waterproofing today at (905) 431-5612 or book your spring inspection at www.mcdowelldrain.ca.

Let’s keep your basement dry and your pipes flowing—all season long.