5 Tips to Prevent Basement Flooding in your Home
Written by SayBuild Administration // February 24, 2016 // Attic & Basement Areas // Comments Off on 5 Tips to Prevent Basement Flooding in your Home
Millions of homeowners are affected by flooded basements every year. This problem is more than just inconvenient. It can also result in significant property damage, such as mold and mildew growth, rotting floors and wall beams, ruined possessions and electrical issues. Furthermore, the costs of cleaning up the mess or repairing the damage can be high. However, preventative measures are easier and far less expensive that fixing the problem after it’s happened.
Here are five tips to prevent basement flooding.
Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
Keeping your gutters and downspouts clear is one of the most important things you can do to prevent water from seeping into your basement. Blockages caused by built-up debris allow rainwater to pool in your gutters or downspouts, leaving it with nowhere to go but over the edge. As a result, large amounts of water pour down right next to your home’s foundation where it can seep through and cause flooding. In addition, your downspouts should extend at least three feet away from your foundation. If they don’t, it’s recommended to install extensions. It is important to make sure that the gutters and downspouts are kept cleaned out to prevent clogs of water. If the water can’t drain out, there is a possibility that it could leak in to your home.
Seal Your Foundation
You should inspect your foundation at least once per year for cracks or signs of water leakage. If there are just a few small cracks, these can be filled in with epoxy. However, if there is more extensive cracking or if water has been leaking in, it’s time to call in a professional waterproofing company, such as Safe-Guard Waterproofing. These issues will only get worse over time if they’re not dealt with immediately.
Septic Tank and Sewer Line Inspection
It’s strongly recommended to have your septic tank or sewer line inspected occasionally. Tree roots and natural age-related degradation can result in damage that allows sewage to escape into the surrounding ground. Eventually, it can make its way through your home’s foundation, creating a serious and highly unpleasant problem.
Maintain Basement Windows
If your basement is equipped with windows, make sure they’re in good condition. Damaged windows will allow water to leak through, which can cause or exacerbate basement flooding. If your basement windows are in poor shape, it’s important to have them replaced. Frames made from vinyl or aluminum are ideal since they last longer and are more resistant to weathering. It is also a good idea to caulk around these windows to keep any water from leaking in to your basement.
Increase Your Landscape Grade
The soil surrounding your foundation should be sloped to allow rainwater to flow away from your home. Ideally, the grade should increase by approximately one-quarter of an inch per foot as it nears your foundation. All you have to do is lay down additional soil and smooth it into the desired grade using a rake.
Don’t let your home and belongings fall victim to flood and water damage. By following these simple five tips, you can effectively prevent your basement from flooding.