
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,
Exterior basement waterproofing permanently stops water before it meets your foundation walls. Technicians excavate around your home, down to footing level, and install a multi-layer system:
Niagara Falls’s unique environment compounds hydrostatic challenges:
● High Water Table & Welland Canal Influence: Groundwater often reaches within inches of the footing..
● Lake-Effect Precipitation & Spring Thaw : Sudden heavy rains—especially in Lundy’s Lane and Victoria Avenue areas—can dump inches in hours.
● Clay & Silt Soils: Locally, heavy clay retains water, increasing hydrostatic pressure against walls.
● Freeze–Thaw Cycles: Winter temperatures cause water in block walls to freeze and expand, widening cracks over time.
An exterior foundation waterproofing Niagara Falls system tackles these forces head-on, protecting both structure and finishes.
Be on the lookout for:
Spotting these early can save you thousands in repairs. Schedule a free inspection St. Catharines today.
Mastery of Niagara Falls’s foundation and drainage challenges.
Google-Guaranteed professionals meeting all Ontario building codes
Industry-leading membranes, drainage boards, and pipes.
Detailed, no-surprise written quotes.
20-year membrane; 5-year on workmanship.
Rapid repair service for flood or structural crises.
A 1920s home in Clifton Hill leaked during every downpour. McDowell’s exterior solution:
Outcome: No water intrusion after three severe storms—and walls remain straight, without bowing.
Hydrostatic pressure occurs when groundwater accumulates and presses against foundation walls. Exterior waterproofing relieves this force by:
By addressing both below-grade and surface water, exterior systems neutralize hydrostatic pressure—preventing cracks, leaks, and structural damage.
Check membrane integrity and downspout connections.
Remove leaves and sediment to prevent overflow.
Re-grade any low spots around the foundation.
Use a garden hose at cleanouts to clear sediment every 2–3 years.
Other Solutions We Offer:
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Call McDowell Drain Services now at (905) 431-5612 or book online.
We’re proud to serve homeowners and businesses throughout Welland — including Dain City, Crowland, East Main, and beyond!
✅ Fast Response
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✅ Guaranteed Repairs
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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. Bhaskar Bhat2024-05-29Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Stuart is extremely professional, reliable and a pleasure to deal with. David North2024-05-24Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 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. Lynn McDonald2024-05-03Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We recently had basement crack leakage in two areas and a sewer backup from an obstructed sewer pipe. We called McDowell Drain & Waterproofing and it was all repaired within two weeks. Both the company and the work was efficient, professional and fair with pricing. We have had no issues since this work was completed. Extremely professional service. Highly recommend for an accountable and trustworthy repair. Max Kamali2024-04-08Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. 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! John Chabhar2024-03-22Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Good job thank you
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Most projects finish in 5–8 days, depending on home size and soil conditions.
Many Niagara Falls municipalities require permits; McDowell handles applications for you.
Yes—every plant and hardscape is protected and fully restored to match pre-work conditions.
Absolutely—dual systems provide maximum defense against groundwater and leaks.
Annual visual checks and periodic drain tile flushing every 2–3 years keep the system optimal.
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!