Each year, about one in 50 homeowners file a property damage claim due to a water-related incident.
One of the most frequent problems during the springtime is basement flooding. Not only are flooded basements unusable, but they can cause health hazards and property damage.
If you have a basement, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to prevent flooding, especially during rainy seasons. This article will share how to prevent basement flooding in five simple steps!
5 Simple Steps To Preventing Basement Flooding
1. Remove Debris from Gutters and Downspouts
One practical tip for preventing basement flooding is removing any debris from your roof and gutters. Doing this will allow melting snow and rainwater to flow away from your home’s foundation.
A convenient way to clean your gutters without a ladder is with a kit that attaches to your garden hose. You can buy these gutter cleaning kits at most home improvement stores.
Also, inspect the design of your gutters to ensure they are functioning optimally. They should direct water at least three feet away from your home, where it can drain.
2. Install a Sump Pump
If your basement is prone to floods, you should install a sump pump. This device draws water out of the basement and away from your home.
If your basement has a sump pump, ensure that the sump pit is clean and the intake valve isn’t blocked. You can check that it’s functioning correctly by pouring water into the hole and verifying that the outflow drains away from your house.
Remember that your sump pump won’t work in the event of a power outage, which puts your basement at risk for flooding during major storms. Thus, it is a good idea to have a battery-powered backup system to work even when the power is out.
3. Set Up Water Alarms
Unless you use your basement daily, you may not notice the flooding until it’s severe. For this reason, it is helpful to place a few water alarms in your basement. They can alert you as soon as the water starts to seep into the house.
There are various types of alarms, but some systems even send you a text message or email if you aren’t home to hear the signal.
4. Install Window Well Covers
If you have basement windows, it is a good idea to install clear plastic window well covers. These fasten to your house’s foundation to keep rain, pests, and other debris out of your basement.
5. Inspect Your Foundation
Often, a basement flood results from cracks in the foundation. These let in water during storms. Therefore, it is a good idea to examine your basement and repair any minor cracks with caulking.
If you find severe cracks, it is best to contact professional waterproofers to repair your foundation.
Prevent Basement Flooding All Year-Round
Without a doubt, basement flooding can be expensive to repair and cause a lot of damage. The good news is that flooding is preventable in most cases.
Follow these tips for basement flooding prevention, and if you have any serious problems, call the professionals!
Did you find the waterproofing tips in this article helpful? If so, check out more of our informative posts!
