Shell Busey
Van. Courier
Q: We recently had a flood in our home, which has since been repaired. We had no warning this was happening since it was caused by a leaky pipe under our concrete slab. How can we ensure this doesn’t happen again? And is there a device we can install to warn us if leaks occur in the future?
A: There is such a product available. It’s called the Flood Stopper and I’ve been fortunate enough to experience this first hand. It saved our home from what could have been a horrible flood.
The Flood Stopper detects water leaks and immediately shuts off the water flow while sounding an audible alarm. The control panel will display the leak location in one or multiple zones or areas. Once the leak has been repaired, the valve can be reset. This is easily installed into any residential or existing water system. Go to www.thefloodstopper.com for more information.
Q: I have a drain in the middle of my double car garage. The drain is effective for my car, which is parked closest to the house but any water that gathers on the far outside wall where the van is parked now flows to that wall instead of flowing to the drain. I have to cut away some drywall, which unfortunately was hung too low. I’m guessing the garage has settled. What can I do to prevent the water from flowing to the far outside wall? If I can’t do anything about that, is there a caulk I can use to prevent water from rotting the 2×6 walls?
A: The main concern is the water affecting the outside wall structure. Rent a circular diamond bladed saw and cut the concrete slab in the area of the pooling water, directing the water back to the drain grate. Do this by using a wedge cut 2×2 to run the sole plate of the saw on the groove or on an angle directing the water back to the drain. It will take multiple cuts to handle the volume of water. You may have to lower the grate.