Since your basement is located underground, it’s the part of your house that is most susceptible to flooding. There are many potential causes. Identifying the cause of basement flooding can help you figure out what steps to take to prevent it from happening in the future.
Basement flooding usually comes without much warning and can happen with heavy rains or other situations. Some of the most common reasons for a basement to flood include the following.
Poor Drainage on Lot
If your house was built on a lot that has poor drainage and the ground slopes towards the house, it can lead to flooding in the basement. A landscaping renovation is needed to correct the grading and allow for the water to flow away from the home.
Improper Sealing
Sealant is used to prevent leaks and flooding, so if it is not done properly or if your basement walls have any cracks or openings, repairs will be needed. Inspect any cracks as soon as you notice them to fix potential problems before basement flooding occurs.
Clogged Gutters
Clogged gutters won’t move the rainwater away from your home properly. This can lead to water getting into the soil near the foundation and from there into the basement. Clean and inspect the gutters at least once per year to prevent this.
Sewer Backup
If the sewer system backs up, it can push dangerous water through the drains and into the basement. Backwater valves can be installed to help prevent this from happening.
Failed Sump Pump
Sump pumps can be used to keep the basement from flooding, but if they stop working during a power outage, the basement can flood. Inspect at least yearly to make sure they are working properly and consider installing a sump pump with a battery backup.
Excessive Rain
When there is heavy rainfall, the rainwater may not flow away from the home quickly and can get in through any cracks or openings around windows and doors. Fix these ahead of time to prevent water from getting inside.
Plumbing Leaks
Leaks in the plumbing for the home can cause flooding and water damage. Have any leaks fixed as soon as they’re noticed to prevent them from getting worse.
What to Do About a Flooded Basement
Flood water in your basement can be a health and safety risk. Be sure to turn off the electricity to the basement and work to remove any standing water if possible. Do not enter the flooded area without protective gear to prevent coming in contact with harmful bacteria, especially if the flooding was caused by a sewage backup.
Contact your insurance company to start the cleaning and restoration process right away and call a waterproofing professional if help is needed to determine the source of the flooding and prevent it from happening again in the future.
Tips to Prevent Basement Flooding
Inspections and proper care can help prevent basement flooding. Check and test your sump pump regularly to make sure it’s working. Install backwater valves to prevent sewage backups and make sure your basement is waterproofed. Clean your gutters regularly, so they work as intended. If any issues are detected, make sure they’re fixed as soon as you find them, before flooding occurs.
Flooding in the basement can cause significant damage, but a quick response can help to minimize it. If you ever have water damage as a result of basement flooding in Springfield Missouri, call the professionals at PuroClean Certified Restoration. We’ll make sure the water damage restoration job is done right.