6 Vital Tips to Keep Your Basement Safe from Flooding
Did you know that flooding can occur essentially anywhere in the US? For that reason, it is important to be prepared for it even if it isn't a common occurrence in your area. It is smart to have certain measures in place to help prevent flooding and the resulting damage. On top of that, some parts of the country have been hit with unusually high amounts of rain. This is a sign that you will really need to take action as soon as possible to keep your home high and dry when the flooding comes.
That said, we want to share with you some vital tips to keep your basement safe from flooding:
1. Get a Sump Pump Installed
If you are worried about flooding in your basement, a sump pump can be a great way to reduce damage. Of course, to use the pump, your basement needs to have already been flooded. However, having one already installed means that you're ready to get the water out as soon as possible. Keep in mind that this pump is powered by electricity, so make sure to install a battery-operated backup system to keep it running in case the lights go out.
2. Seal Up Your Basement
Sealing openings in the basement is an important step in preventing flooding. This involves checking the weatherstripping on doors and making sure windows are caulked. However, if water is coming through the walls of the basement itself instead of the sealed areas, it's best to contact a professional waterproofing company for help.
3. Implement a Backwater Valve
Cleaning up sewage can be expensive, and prevention is much cheaper! Installing a backwater valve at a strategic location in the house is the best way to protect your home from flooding due to sewage. The valve will block any incoming sewage from entering through the other drains, like toilets and sinks.
4. Grade Around the Home's Foundations
Over time, the soil gradually shifts. Adjustments to your landscape can have a negative impact on the soil grading near your house. If the grading isn't arranged to direct water away from the foundation, it will accumulate in the basement or crawl space. This can be quickly addressed with the help of a professional landscaping business.
5. Install Downspout Extensions
If you see collected water at the end of your downspouts, then you may want to consider adding extensions to move the water away from your house to a place that is safe for it to go. This small and economic investment could save you thousands of dollars in repairs from water damage.
6. Keep the Gutters Clog-Free
You can keep your basement from flooding by either manually removing debris from your gutters or by installing gutter covers. Reviews of these gutter covers suggest they are an effective solution to basement flooding issues.
Conclusion
Basement flooding is a common problem, but it is one that can be prevented with the right steps. By regularly inspecting and maintaining your gutters, drainage system, and the like and investing in flood-prevention measures, you can reduce the risk of basement flooding. This can save you hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in damage, allowing you to live worry-free and financially sound.
Advanced Basement Waterproofing offers expert mold removal and basement waterproofing services along with other add-ons to help meet a variety of basement-related needs. If you are looking for
basement floodproofing services in Hartford County, reach out to us today!