Learning how to avoid basement flooding is important for homeowners. While some floods are unavoidable, such as those resulting from extreme weather, preventative measures help ensure a clean, dry basement. Taking a few steps to prevent floods can also mean avoiding otherwise unnecessary home repair costs!
How to avoid basement flooding on your property:
This is just a quick overview of how to avoid basement flooding in your home. To ensure you’re keeping your property in tiptop shape, keep reading! Also, remember to call a basement waterproofing contractor near you for expert services. Professional waterproofing is an excellent investment for any property.
Preventing basement flooding is crucial to protect your home and belongings. Flooding not only risks wood rot but it can encourage mold and mildew growth. Excess moisture also means unpleasant musty smells! With that in mind, check out 9 methods to help avoid basement flooding:
Ensure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation. This prevents water from pooling near your basement walls. The ground should slope downward at least 6 inches over the first 10 feet away from the foundation.
If you’re not sure about your property’s grading, consult with a landscaping engineer, foundation contractor, or basement waterproofing contractor. These professionals usually know how to check a property’s grade. They can also suggest the best choice for grading your property as needed.
Keep your gutters clean and free from debris. Make sure downspouts extend at least 5 feet away from your home’s foundation. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce clogs. Also, check to ensure they’re sized properly for your area’s weather conditions.
Install a French drain system around the perimeter of your home. These collect and redirect groundwater away from your foundation. This can be especially effective in areas with high water tables.
Additionally, French drains install several inches underground. As such, they’re very unobtrusive and won’t interfere with your property’s landscaping or appearance. They’re also affordable and need minimal maintenance.
A sump pump is designed to pump water out of a basement. The pump system first collects water in a pit installed in a low point in the basement. The pump then pumps that water to a drain or the home’s exterior.
Install a sump pump with a backup battery system to ensure it works during power outages. Regularly test your sump pump to make sure it’s functioning correctly. This system is an excellent choice for any property prone to flooding.
Seal any cracks or gaps in your basement walls and floors. Apply waterproofing coatings or paints to protect against moisture infiltration. These are especially useful if you cannot afford professional exterior waterproofing. They also help protect finished building materials, such as drywall against water damage.
Window well covers are like small awnings designed to sit over basement windows. These covers direct rainwater, melting snow, and the like away from those basement windows, preventing moisture from seeping through. If your basement has windows, install covers for maximum protection against flooding.
Regularly inspect and maintain your plumbing system, including pipes and drains. Leaks or clogs can lead to water damage, including plumbing. Remember that water runs to the lowest point and that usually means a home’s basement! In turn, a plumbing leak can mean basement flooding and resultant rot, mold, and other damage.
Avoid planting trees or shrubs with invasive root systems close to your home’s foundation. These risk foundation damage that can mean leaks and flooding. Planting grass or using non-invasive plants can help maintain soil stability. A landscaping installation contractor can advise on the best plants for your property.
Improperly sealed basement windows let outside moisture seep into the home, risking floods. In turn, it’s vital that you ensure your home’s basement windows are well-maintained and sealed properly. Fix cracks and other damage quickly or replace the windows altogether when needed.
The brief answer is no, basements in well-constructed and maintained homes should not flood. The only exception would be severe outdoor weather. Even so, sump pumps and other equipment can protect against flooding and resultant damage. Additionally, you might note some common causes of basement flooding:
A basement can flood during heavy rain for several reasons, including those mentioned above. Consider some other common reasons why basements may flood during heavy rain:
These risks are all good reasons to consider a sump pump or other equipment in a basement prone to flooding. These pump water out quickly, helping to avoid water damage.
Basement Waterproofing of Rhode Island is happy to explain how to avoid basement flooding to our readers. If you’re in the state, call our Rhode Island basement waterproofing contractors for more information. We can also provide a FREE waterproofing price quote for your property. For more information, contact our crew today.