Basement flooding can be a major issue and during the spring storms, it can happen easily. Being prepared is the best way to prevent basement flooding. This means it’s crucial for homeowners to understand what are the top causes of basement flooding in Springfield Missouri so they can take the appropriate steps to reduce their risk.
Landscaping Not Properly Graded
If your landscaping was not properly graded when your home was built, it could be pushing water toward the house instead of away. This means that the water will puddle closer to the home, resulting in basement flooding. This can often be seen after spring storms as there will be puddles close to the home instead of the water moving away. Regrading the landscaping is the best solution for this as it can help push the rainwater away from the home.
Walls and Floors Not Properly Sealed
If the walls and floors in the basement are not properly sealed, it’s easier for water to get inside. All basements should have waterproofed walls and flooring to help avoid the basement flooding that can happen with spring storms. If there are any cracks or openings, have these fixed so the area is securely waterproofed. Inspect your basement walls and floors regularly for issues and call a professional for repair as soon as any are detected.
Gutter System Isn’t Functioning Properly
The gutters on your home serve to move excess water from the roof away from your home’s foundation. If they are clogged or otherwise not working properly, the water will instead end up close to the home’s foundation, which can cause basement flooding. Make sure your gutters are regularly cleaned and correct any issues right away.
Sewer System Has Backed Up
Spring storms can cause issues with the sewer system during very heavy storms. This can cause a sewer backup to happen, which means water may come up through plumbing fixtures in the basement. To prevent this, make sure the sanitary sewer line has a backflow valve designed to stop the backups and prevent sewer water from getting inside your home.
Sump Pump Failure Has Occurred
Some basements have sump pumps installed to keep the area free from water in case any water does enter the basement. However, when not used frequently, these pumps can fail and the basement can become flooded due to spring storms. Before spring each year, clean out the sump pump and have it inspected and tested to ensure it is working properly.
If in spite of all these precautions, your basement does flood, make sure it is dried as soon as possible to save as much as you can in the basement. It is essential, however, to make sure your flooded basement is remediated quickly and safely to protect the health of your family. If you ever experience basement flooding from a spring storm, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration in Springfield Missouri to do the job right.