As the temperatures begin to fall, add catch basin repair services to the list of things to do before winter sets in. Without proper repair and maintenance services, catch basins can’t effectively protect the integrity of your pavement and prevent potential injury/accidents due to flooding. You can avoid a complete catch basin replacement by addressing the issues on your property now before they become serious problems.
Understanding Catch Basins
A catch basin is a plastic or metal device installed on the lower inclined portion of a property or road to force water to drain off the surface. Commonly referred to as a storm drain, these basins help prevent flooding of the area while collecting debris before it enters the drainage system, storm sewer, or waterway.
There are two types of catch basins. Open catch basin systems are constructed to allow water and debris to flow away from the area through bars or large holes. A closed catch basin system only allows water to flow through smaller openings, forcing any debris to collect on top of the grate. Regular maintenance of either system is important as debris can cause severe blockage, affecting the efficiency of the catch basin.
Signs of Catch Basin Damage
To prevent issues and to avoid the need for catch basin rebuilding services, there are some tell-tale signs to be aware of.
Check if debris is piling on top of the catch basin, which prevents the water runoff from entering the system, as this can indicate the basin is too small for the surface area. If the debris is slipping through the top of the catch basins, note any visible damage or cracking in and around the basin as this can lead to a collapse of the structure. Any water seeping into the basin through the edges can also indicate cracking.
Consequences of Neglecting Catch Basin Repairs
Neglecting catch basin repairs can affect the efficiency of the basin, leading to a blockage and/or clogging.
In addition, if water penetrates the asphalt, it can create underlying divots and voids within the pavement, thereby causing structural damage to the pavement. As the composition of the asphalt weakens, the risk of sinkholes forming increases.
Aside from the possibility of needing to replace the damaged asphalt and catch basin, another financial consequence of neglecting repairs is the potential fines and penalties by the local government authorities. Most municipalities have stormwater management bylaws that commercial property owners are legally responsible for adhering to. Allowing the local environment to be impacted due to a poorly managed catch basin can be damaging to a business’s reputation and budget.
Benefits of Repairing Catch Basins Before Winter
As southern Ontario is synonymous with a rainy fall season, most catch basins work overtime to remove excess water before the cold temperatures set in. It is crucial that the basin be able to handle the onset of rain, snow, and melting ice during the winter.
Repairing catch basins before the ground freezes can also reduce the risk of liability claims. Accidents and injuries due to water pooling and/or a parking lot turned into a skating rink scenario are common in the winter months. Plus, if you end up needing an emergency repair during the winter, it can cost thousands of dollars to replace and/or repair.
Steps to Get Your Catch Basin Repaired
Contact a professional contractor to inspect the catch basin. He/she will have the expertise and equipment to properly assess the extent of the damage and what, if any, necessary repairs are needed at the time. A catch basin repair project requires a certified contractor who understands the importance of drainage systems and how to improve the function of the catch basin to prevent further complications.
Winter Maintenance Tips for Catch Basins
During the winter months, performing regular inspections and removing any and all debris and leaves in and around the catch basins can help prevent potential ice buildups. Winter maintenance can prolong the lifespan of the basin as ice can cause cracks to form within the catch basin, allowing snow and melting ice to seep into the asphalt and underlying pipes.
Hire Sure-Seal to Provide Catch Basin Repairs and Maintenance Before the Winter
Catch basins are an integral part of your commercial property. Hire the leading team at Sure-Seal Pavement Maintenance Inc. We offer an industry-leading seven-year structural warranty for all of our catch basin repairs in Toronto.
Our technicians perform superior work to ensure your catch basin is ready for any mid-winter and spring thaw. Call us today at 416-410-3705 or fill out our contact form.