Do you live in an area prone to storms and floods? Follow these tips to prevent basement flooding.
Unaddressed basement flooding can seriously undermine the foundation and structure of your property. Contaminated floodwater and mold issues can even pollute the indoor air quality of your entire home, making you and your family vulnerable to unfavorable health conditions.
The stakes are higher in case of a finished basement where you may have invested in expensive furniture, fixtures, a home cinema or office, and more. Thus, preventing basement flooding is extremely important to salvage your belongings and avoid costly repairs afterward.
Here are some effective tips to prevent basement flooding:
Clear Your Gutters
What you choose to do inside your basement will remain largely ineffective if the external aspects aren’t managed well. The most common reason for basement flooding is clogged gutters. A build up of debris, such as leaves, can block the free flow of water, which will then spill over the sides and eventually flood your basement, garage, or other spaces in your house. To avoid this, keep checking the gutters from time to time and clear them to reduce the chances of any blockage.
Position Your Downspouts Appropriately
If your downspouts are not properly directed, water from them can drop and collect around the boundaries of your home. It doesn’t take long before standing water around your home makes its way into the basement. Your downspouts should, therefore, be positioned to direct and discharge water at least 3 feet away from your home foundation. If your existing downspout can’t be extended, install a few extensions to it.
Get Your Home Foundation Inspected
Once you’ve addressed the external causes, turn to the internal aspects. Any repair flaws, cracks in your basement in the foundation of your home can easily allow water intrusions, paving the way for basement flooding. If you suspect any such issues, get your home foundation professionally inspected for cracks and openings.
If you think water enters through windows, properly seal them to prevent leaks. For extra protection against moisture, you may even consider installing some high-quality window well covers.
Install Flood Sensors
One of the most effective ways to proactively prevent basement flooding is to use smart water sensors. These devices detect moisture and alert you before the situation worsens. All you need to do is place a few sensors around a basement window, water heater, sink, and toilet and download the corresponding app. If the device senses any significant water accumulation, it will notify you right on your smartphone or iOS via the app. This way, you can address the situation before your basement floods.
Monitor Your Sump Pump
Many homeowners use sump pumps to prevent basement flooding, but they don’t keep them maintained. The problem is that a malfunctioning sump pump can actually cause basement flooding instead of preventing it, especially if it overflows or fails to automatically switch on when required. Thus, if you do have a sump pump, keep an eye on it to ensure that it’s working properly.
These are some techniques to prevent basement flooding. If these methods fail and your basement floods, contact an experienced water damage restoration service immediately.
For emergency water damage remediation, contact STOP Bakersfield at your earliest.
