Fall Maintenance Guide: Protecting Your Property with Proper Drainage Solutions in Powell River

As fall approaches in Powell River, residents are aware of the challenges posed by our unique climate. Situated within the Coastal Western Hemlock bio geoclimatic zone, Powell River experiences a temperate rainforest climate with cool, often wet, winters and dry summer spells. The transition from the dry season to the wetter months can create specific maintenance challenges for your property, and at T&R Contracting, we’re here to help you with a fall maintenance guide to protecting your property with proper drainage tips.

Understanding the climate: Powell River’s wet season

Powell River’s climate is characterized by mild winters and cool summers, with the wetter season lasting from October 8 to April 20. During this period, the chance of a wet day, defined as one with at least 1 millimeter of precipitation, exceeds 35%, peaking in November when there are an average of 17.2 wet days. November’s precipitation averages 14.6 rainy days and a peak rain probability of 52% on November 5!

Given this significant rainfall, it’s no surprise that flooding and drainage issues are major concerns for property owners. Considering that less than 15% of precipitation falls as snow, means your property must be well-prepared to handle the influx of water.

Fall maintenance for effective drainage

At the end of our dry summer season, the ground develops a hard, crusty top layer due to the accumulation of fine dust. This layer acts as an impermeable barrier, preventing the initial rainfall from being absorbed by the soil, leading to water runoff and potential flooding. Proper drainage is essential to manage this excess water and protect your property from damage.

When planning your fall maintenance, one of the key areas to focus on is creating a drainage system that effectively channels water away from vulnerable areas. At T&R Contracting, we specialize in providing high-quality aggregates designed specifically for drainage. By choosing the right materials, you can ensure that water flows smoothly through your property, reducing the risk of flooding during Powell River’s notoriously wet months.

Choosing the right aggregate for Powell River’s rainy season

Drainage systems are most effective when they allow water to move freely through a path of least resistance. This is where “drain rock” or “clear rock” becomes crucial. Unlike regular gravel, which includes fine particles that can block water flow, drain rock has been screened to remove these smaller materials, creating space for water to pass through.

At T&R Contracting, we offer two types of drain rock to suit different drainage needs:

• 3/4″ Clear Fractured Granite: This angular rock locks together for stability while maintaining open spaces for water flow. It’s ideal for drainage systems that require both durability and efficiency.
• 3/4″ Clear Round Rock (River Rock): If you’re looking for a more natural aesthetic while still ensuring proper drainage, our round river rock is a great option. It provides excellent water flow and is perfect for areas where visual appeal is important.

Both products are produced right here at T&R and are kept in stock.

Protecting your property beyond drainage

While drainage is a top priority during fall maintenance, other areas of your property may also need attention to withstand the wet climate:

• Retaining walls: Heavy rainfall can lead to soil erosion and instability on slopes. Our aggregates provide excellent drainage behind retaining walls, helping to reduce hydrostatic pressure and prolong the life of your structure.Through our partner Hyland Redi-Rock we can offer one of the most sophisticated and engineered retaining walls in the world. Locally manufactured in the Comox Valley.
• Driveway repair: Driveways can take a beating after a dry summer, and the freeze-thaw cycles of winter can worsen any existing damage. Repairing potholes and uneven surfaces with quality gravel and clear rock will help protect your driveway from further deterioration.
• Hydro excavating: Coast Hydro Excavating is a Powell River partner company that can help with fall maintenance. For DIY homeowners, hydro excavation offers a safe and efficient solution for speeding up home improvement projects. This service covers a range of tasks, including drainage repairs, water management, replacement of city water lines, and the locating of utility and gas lines. It is also ideal for digging holes for fences, flags, lights, and posts, as well as maintaining septic systems, wells, and catch basins.

Additional steps to take to protect your property with proper drainage strategies:

1. Take action and keep storm drain surfaces, also called catch basins, clear of leaves and debris.
2. In the fall, sweep up leaves for yard waste collection or composting to prevent flooding from plugged drains.
3. In winter and spring, keep storm drains clear of snow from your driveways and sidewalks.
4. Make sure that your sump pumps and backflow prevention valves are working.
5. Ensure downspouts and leaders are secure, of proper length, directed down and away from your property and your neighbours property.
6. Proper lot grading and drainage is important.

The T&R Contracting advantage

Living in Powell River means adapting to the region’s unique climate. At T&R Contracting, we understand that your property is one of your most valuable investments. That’s why we’re committed to providing the highest-quality products that are built to last. Whether you’re tackling a major drainage overhaul or just sprucing up your driveway, our team is here to help you choose the right materials for the job.

Don’t wait until the rains come to start thinking about protecting your property with proper drainage. Contact T&R Contracting today, and let us help you prepare for a worry-free fall and winter season. We have Trucks & Rocks!