By: Barry Stone
Dear Barry,
The doorway to our basement is located below ground and there's a small drain just outside the door. Whenever rains are heavy, the drain gets clogged with debris. As long as I sweep material away from the drain, it's fine. But when I'm away, leaves and stuff build up and water seeps into the basement. I've heard there's some type of screen that prevents clogging of the drain but haven't been able to find one at the hardware store. Can you suggest a solution before my basement is ruined? --Carol
Dear Carol,
The screen you seek is made especially for roof drains. It appears to be a small dome-like cage, about 5-6 inches tall. When placed directly over a drain opening, on roofs, entry landings, decks or other locations, it catches leaves and debris, thereby preventing clogging. Look for this item with the roofing supplies at your local building supply store. If they don't have it, call a roofing contractor.
Copyright 2002-2006 Barry Stone. Distributed by Inman News Features



. Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted our "