Preventing a Flooded Basement.

12/8/2022 (Permalink)

Water in your basement can cause damage to your walls and flooring, as well as carpets and furniture, and can harm priceless objects like photo albums, antiques, and family treasures frequently used for storage.

Water damage can be expensive to repair, whether from a plumbing leak, a roof leak, or a flooded basement. Taking the proper preparations now will save you money, time, and problems later, and it may even help you avoid massive, unforeseeable natural disasters. Here are a few home modifications that will reduce the likelihood of water damage:

Add or update drainage

Use gutters and downspouts to ensure water is diverted away from your home and its foundation. The easiest solutions to overflowing gutters are either adding another downspout on that run of gutter or increasing the size of the downspout.

Install a sump pump

 Try this addition if water damage has been a severe problem in your home's lower level. Choose a cast-iron sump pump, which may last longer, and consider buying a battery-powered backup pump if the power goes out.

Seal Your Basement

This is a very logical step, but one many homeowners fail to keep up with year after year. Sealing openings to your basement means keeping weatherstripping around doors in good condition and making sure windows are caulked.

Install a water leak detection system

An automatic water shut-off valve is a water leak detection system that will shut off the water supply to the home when it detects water on the floor or an irregular flow in the pipe.

Check Your Landscaping

Although plants absorb water from the soil, they can also cause water intrusion in your basement. If they are too close to the foundation, roots may penetrate, resulting in cracks or bowing walls that allow water in. Overgrown shrubs may also restrict once-proper drainage and allow water to pool too close to your home.

Clean the Gutters

Clean the gutters on your roof to ensure that they do not overflow during a rainstorm. The downspouts carry the water away from your home, and if they are not clear of debris, the water might flow into your home's basement.

Check Your Foundation for Cracks

Check your home's foundation from the inside and outside for any cracks. If you notice small cracks, use caulk to seal them. If the cracks are extensive, you will need the help of a professional to fix them before they cause damage to your basement.

Our SERVPRO of West Chester and Southern Delaware County are Professionals in water damage restoration. We are your best option to inspect your home of standing water and get it cleaned up quickly efficiently and thoroughly. Several potential problems could arise from waiting to address standing water in your house.

Give us a call today to help avoid these concerns as much as possible. We are 24/7 Emergency Response at 610-506-8919 or 484-846-6669