Why St. Clair Shores Homes Flood
Flooding and sewer backups are frustratingly common for homeowners in St. Clair Shores, Michigan, leaving many to beg the question of why our homes flood so easily. Many of us have dealt with water creeping into our basements during heavy rain, leaving behind damage, mold, and hefty repair bills. While the problem might feel like a modern-day nuisance, its roots go back decades. Let’s dig into the reasons this happens and what you can do to protect your home. If you’re dealing with flooding in your St. Clair Shores home, call Zeppelin today to let our pros handle the damage.
Sewer and Pump Systems
St. Clair Shores, like many older communities, has relied on a combined sewer system for decades. These systems handle both sewage and stormwater in the same pipes. While this setup was state-of-the-art when it was built, it can’t handle the demands of today’s climate or population. This is a major reason why St. Clair Shores homes flood.
When we get heavy rain, these pipes can’t keep up. The water has to go somewhere, and unfortunately, that often means into basements. The Chapaton Pump Station, which serves much of St. Clair Shores, plays a critical role in managing this water. However, during major storms, it can get overwhelmed, causing overflows into Lake St. Clair and backups into homes.
Our Geography Makes Things Worse
Living near Lake St. Clair is one of the best parts of living here, but it’s also part of the problem. Rising lake levels add strain to the system, especially during storms. On top of that, St. Clair Shores is incredibly flat, which means water doesn’t drain away easily. All of this combines to create the perfect conditions for basement flooding. If you’re experiencing flooding, Zeppelin is here to help with professional and reliable water damage restoration services in St. Clair Shores.
The 2021 Flooding Crisis
If 2021 taught us anything, it’s that we’re not immune to major flooding events. That June, severe storms overwhelmed the city’s infrastructure, leaving hundreds of homes with standing water in their basements. The damage went beyond soaked carpets and ruined drywall—many homeowners faced mold growth, structural damage, and costly repairs.
For many, it was a wake-up call that relying on the city’s aging systems isn’t enough. Homeowners have started to take proactive steps to protect their homes before the next big storm hits.
How to Protect Your Home
While you can’t control the weather or the city’s infrastructure, you can take steps to minimize the risk of basement flooding:
- Install a Backwater Valve: This device prevents sewage from backing up into your home during heavy rain.
- Maintain Your Gutters and Downspouts: Make sure water is directed away from your foundation.
- Invest in a Sump Pump: A good sump pump can remove water before it causes major damage. Adding a battery backup ensures it works during power outages.
- Waterproof Your Basement: Sealing your basement walls and floors can stop water from seeping in.
- Schedule Sewer Inspections: A professional can identify clogs or other issues in your sewer line before they lead to bigger problems.
Take Action Before the Next Storm
Flooding and sewer backups are a fact of life in St. Clair Shores, but they don’t have to ruin your home. Whether you’re already dealing with water damage or want to prevent future problems, there are solutions available. Contact Zeppelin today to learn more.