
What to Do If Your Basement Floods in Niagara Falls
Flooded basement in Niagara Falls? You’re not alone. Every spring and after severe storms, dozens of homeowners along Lundy’s Lane,
Have you been struggling with excessive flooding? Are you looking for a hassle-free way to avoid moisture and damage in your home? McDowell Drain Services provides professional back water valve installation that can protect your family and property. Contact us today to get the peace of mind that comes from knowing your home is secure!
Backwater valves are essential for protecting your home from sewer backups, a common issue in Canadian homes, especially during heavy rainstorms or rapid snowmelt. Without a backwater valve, your home’s drainage system is at risk of being overwhelmed by municipal sewer systems, potentially forcing sewage and wastewater back into your basement.
Under regular conditions, wastewater flows from your home to the municipal sewer system without obstruction.
If the municipal sewer system experiences high pressure or backflow, the backwater valve automatically closes, blocking wastewater from entering your home. A flap inside the valve rises to seal the pipe and prevents reverse flow.
The valve operates using gravity, requiring no external power source.
It resets automatically once the sewer pressure normalizes.
This simple yet effective mechanism safeguards your home against costly water damage and unsanitary conditions.
At McDowell Drain Services, we follow a meticulous process to ensure your backwater valve is installed correctly and functions optimally:
We start by inspecting your home’s plumbing system and sewer line to determine the best location for the valve installation. Our team ensures that the proposed installation complies with local building codes and regulations.
We handle all the necessary permits and paperwork to ensure a smooth and compliant installation process.
Our technicians prepare the worksite to minimize disruption to your home.
The main sewer line is exposed, and a section is removed to accommodate the backwater valve. The valve is securely installed, tested for proper operation, and integrated seamlessly into your existing plumbing system.
We conduct rigorous testing to confirm that the valve functions correctly under simulated backup conditions.
Our team provides you with a demonstration on how the valve works and offers maintenance tips.
After completing the installation, we restore your property to its original condition.
A final inspection ensures that the system meets all safety and performance standards.
McDowell Drain Services is the trusted choice for backwater valve installation in Niagara and surrounding regions. Here’s why:
With over 45 years of experience, we understand the unique Drainage & Water Proofing challenges Canadian homes face and tailor our solutions accordingly.
Our installations meet all local regulations, ensuring your backwater valve is compliant and reliable.
We use modern tools and industry-best practices to ensure a seamless and efficient installation process.
Drainage & Waterproofing emergencies don’t wait, and neither do we. Our team is available around the clock to address urgent concerns.
We provide upfront estimates with no hidden fees, ensuring you receive top-quality service within your budget.
From start to finish, we prioritize clear communication, professional workmanship, and your peace of mind.
We are proud to have earned the trust and confidence of our customers through our commitment to excellence and exceptional service.
We had some drainage issues and called McDowell Drain & Waterproofing. It was GREAT service, he called me right back and was here within 2 hours. Solved the problem and haven’t had any issues since. On top of great service, Stuart was very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable! I would highly recommend and will certainly be calling him for any plumbing issues we may have in the future!:)
Professional from first contact to job completion. Job was to install a sewer backwater valve but once the floor was opened, it was evident that a sump pump installation was also required. Quickly pivoted to accommodate the additional work scope and still meet the timeline completion. Stuart, the owner is knowledgeable, professional and puts you at ease. Alex the installer did great work and paid attention to details. He was always receptive to any questions or concerns. Would not hesitate to recommend them for your plumbing needs.
MCDOWELL DRAIN & WATERPROOFING, led by Stuart, truly stands out in the professional field. As someone with experience in spotting professionalism, I was thoroughly impressed by Stuart’s ability to listen attentively and resolve the issue promptly as promised. His honesty and competitive pricing, coupled with the high quality of his work, make him a standout choice for any drain and waterproofing needs. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking top-notch service in this field!
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We are proud to have earned the trust and confidence of our customers through our commitment to excellence and exceptional service.
We had some drainage issues and called McDowell Drain & Waterproofing. It was GREAT service, he called me right back and was here within 2 hours. Solved the problem and haven’t had any issues since. On top of great service, Stuart was very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable! I would highly recommend and will certainly be calling him for any plumbing issues we may have in the future!:)
Professional from first contact to job completion. Job was to install a sewer backwater valve but once the floor was opened, it was evident that a sump pump installation was also required. Quickly pivoted to accommodate the additional work scope and still meet the timeline completion. Stuart, the owner is knowledgeable, professional and puts you at ease. Alex the installer did great work and paid attention to details. He was always receptive to any questions or concerns. Would not hesitate to recommend them for your plumbing needs.
MCDOWELL DRAIN & WATERPROOFING, led by Stuart, truly stands out in the professional field. As someone with experience in spotting professionalism, I was thoroughly impressed by Stuart’s ability to listen attentively and resolve the issue promptly as promised. His honesty and competitive pricing, coupled with the high quality of his work, make him a standout choice for any drain and waterproofing needs. I wholeheartedly recommend him to anyone seeking top-notch service in this field!
Andrew Walsh2025-05-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. McDowell repaired a sewer lateral for me. Great job. Very knowledgeable, diligent and responsive, and a pleasure to work with. Parth Bali2025-05-27Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. I had a big sewer problem at my home in St. Catharines and was really worried it would turn into a disaster. But Stuart and his team at McDowell Drain & Waterproofing were incredible. They used trenchless repair so there was no digging up my yard. I was shocked at how clean and quick it was. Stuart was kind, honest, and truly cared about doing a good job. He was so knowledgeable, I called in other companies too but after talking to him, I was kind of sure to go ahead with this company only. So thankful I called them! Lovepreet Singh2025-05-26Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Had a serious drainage issue at my home in St Catharines and needed a sump pump replacement plus a drain replacement. Mcdowell drain & waterproofing were fast, professional, explained me and my family the whole process. Stu the owner of the company was very knowledgeable, reliable and trustworthy. He was very honest and gave me the best possible quote. Thank you Mcdowell for best service we have ever got. Andrew2025-05-23Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Prompt and friendly service from Stuart! After days of heavy rain, I was concerned about the structure of the weeping tile draining into my sump pump pit and after a call to Stuart he was able to examine the pipe work using a camera scope. Stuart was friendly, efficient, and professional. Akash Agrawal2025-05-18Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had a stubborn kitchen drain in our house in thorold that refused to clear no matter what I tried, I applied all DIY. McDowell Drain Services arrived within the hour, used their hydro-jetting to clear away years of grease and even checked the whole line with a camera to ensure it has been unclogged properly.The techs were friendly, professional and worked very efficiently and left my sink draining perfectly. Highly recommend McDowell for anyone dealing with a clogged drain in the whole niagara region and beyond. Usha Tayal2025-04-19Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Mcdowell drain service company did an amazing job in my St Catharine house in niagara Region. They installed backwater valve and replaced drain in my house. Stu is very knowledgeable person and did a perfect job in a quick time at a very reasonable price. I would def recommend Mcdowell Drain Services to everyone in the niagara region without a doubt. Thank you Stu and team Jim Naar2025-04-01Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Can't say enough about the quality of the experience from beginning to end. We arranged to have Stuart come out to re-assess why my parents drain had backed up before Christmas. The drain had been cleared by another company. Stuart was very thorough, kind and knowledgeable. Through the camera he sent down the sewer drain, he explained exactly what needed to be done and the time frame he could have it done. We had him over on Friday afternoon and by late this afternoon (the following Tuesday). The work was done. A section of drain had to be replaced just outside the house. The two Ivan's arrived this morning, as planned. Hand dug over eight feet down to the issue, made the repair, took pictures and closed it up. Except for the clean-out they installed, you wouldn't know that work was done that day. All the soil was piled on a tarp, and all debris taken away. Both Ivan's were very pleasant and worked hard. If we could give more stars we would. Terrific experience. Quality work. Kimberley2025-03-28Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had 3 drains installed and a back flow valve. From estimate to completed work, everything was completed with professionalism and was quality work. Thank you. Nancy Heckman2024-12-04Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently hired McDowell Drain & Waterproofing, to repair our sewer lateral in the house. I can't praise them enough. From the first time we met with Stuart 2 weeks ago, he assured us that he would make sure that everything was fixed properly for us and at a reasonable price. We knew from speaking with him, that he was someone who stood by his word. We were blown away with the qoute, since we had a couple previous outrageous estimates. Stuart's workers were very thorough at making sure that everything was plasticed off, drop cloths laid down and all the debris removed. Very kind and respectful gentleman. Thank you Stuart , we would not hesitate to recommend your company. Thank you Stuart Howard & Nancy John McLaughlin2024-09-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very thorough. Did an excellent job and cleaned the work area after they were done. Price was very reasonable and I would recommend to anyone.
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A backwater valve prevents sewage from flowing back into your home during sewer line surges by closing a one-way flap.
They protect your home from messy and costly sewer backups caused by heavy rain or municipal sewer system overloads.
It’s installed in your home’s main sewer line, typically in the basement.
Yes, many municipalities require or recommend backwater valves in flood-prone areas.
Most installations are completed within a single day.
Does a backwater valve require maintenance?
Many insurers offer discounts or require valves for coverage against sewer backups.
Costs depend on the complexity of the installation. Contact McDowell for a personalized quote.
At McDowell Drain Services, we’re here to provide prompt, reliable, and expert solutions for all your drainage and waterproofing needs. Don’t let a small issue turn into a major problem—reach out to our team now! Call us today or schedule an appointment online, and let our professionals take care of the rest. Your satisfaction is our priority!