Summer is a beautiful season, but with sunny skies and warm temperatures can come hazards. Between heavy rain from summer storms, and the extra load on your plumbing from summer laundry, your basement may have an increased risk of flooding. Whether you use your basement as a storage catchall, a playroom, or a home gym, preventative measures can go a long way toward preventing your basement from flooding. While most people focus on fire prevention techniques, your home is statistically much more likely to experience water damage from flooding and similar sources. Basements are particularly susceptible to flooding due to their low position, the presence of plumbing, and other factors. Read on for tips on how to avoid flooding in your basement.
Keep Your Sump Pump in Good Condition
A sump pump is a crucial installation to keep excess water moving away from the home. If your power goes out, ensure that your sump pump is still working. Battery-operated models are available to replace those powered by electricity. If your home doesn’t have a sump pump or if the existing one is in poor condition, we strongly advise investing in a new one. Consider purchasing a battery-operated generator which can not only run your sump pump if your power cuts out, but also other essential appliances in your home.
Prevent Rain from Getting In
If water pools around the exterior of your foundation, it can find its way through cracks and cause serious damage down the line to the structure. So the goal is to discourage the buildup of rainwater around your home’s foundation as much as possible. Periodically clean and clear your rain gutters, especially after a storm or during the fall if you have a lot of trees around your home. Otherwise, rain will overflow and run down against your exterior walls. Extend downspouts at least 3 feet away from your home to encourage runoff. Inspect your basement’s walls and ceilings for any cracks or water stains and have them promptly repaired by a professional if found.
Take Care of Your Plumbing
Keep your drains clear of any obstructions, and avoid putting anything in your garbage disposal that doesn’t belong there, such as cruciferous vegetables or coffee grounds. These items can cause blockages that can lead to your pipes leaking or even bursting, causing a flood. Inspect your pipes from time to time to ensure there are no leaks. At the first sign of a leak, contact a professional for repairs before the situation escalates.
These tips may be able to help you prevent an issue with flooding, but that’s not always possible. If your basement has suffered water damage from flooding or a pipe bursting, contact the professionals at RestorePro today for immediate assistance. Water damage issues must be treated quickly for optimal results, due to the risk of ongoing damage and the encouragement of mold growth. Contact our crew today at 1-800-847-0114 if your property is in need of water damage cleanup and restoration. We’re available 24 hours a day to assist you when time matters most.
Link:
Assessing Your Flood Risk – http://floodsafety.com/national/property/risk/index.htm
