Photos of the disaster scene are familiar to everyone: the basement floor flooded, furniture destroyed, and boxes of memories wet and moldy. Most likely, a basement flood has just occurred (or was very narrowly averted) in your home if you are here reading this.
You may have this question in mind: “Why did my basement flood—and how do I make sure it never happens again?” It is a common concern that homeowners often ask us at ONT Restoration Services.
First, we’ll go over the basics of what causes a flooded basement, and then we shall go over some ways to prevent it from happening again.
Before Anything Else, We Need to Know Why Did Your Basement Flood?
Although there is no one cause, the following are the most common causes of basement flooding:
1. Excessive precipitation, whether it’s rain or snow!
The ground gets wet when the sky opens up or when snow melts at a rapid pace. Water will find a way in via any openings in your foundation or basement windows if your home isn’t adequately sloped or protected.
2. Failure of the sump pump
You know that reliable sump pump down there? When it’s effective, it’s helpful. One of the most common reasons for a flooded basement, particularly during storms or power outages, is a pump that is either faulty or overloaded.
3. Backups in the sewer system
It looks just like what it sounds like. Sewage can back up into your home if the city’s sewer system has a backup. The cleanup costs are high, and it poses a health risk as well.
4. Foundation fissures
Basement walls or floors can develop tiny fissures that, if left unchecked, can eventually allow water to seep in. Unless you are in the middle of a river, you might not realize they are there.
Prevention of Future Basement Floods
Anyone who has dealt with flooded basement water removal knows how daunting the task can be. Now for the good news! Make preparations today to ensure that your basement remains dry.
Know your sump pump inside and out
Keep an eye on it. To see if it turns on, pour some water into it. Think about getting a new one if it’s older than seven years. Invest in a battery backup system, no joke. Flooding is most likely to occur during power outages.
Consider reevaluating your drainage system
Does water flow from your downspouts into the yard of your house? That’s an issue. Keep them six feet or more away from the base of your house. You should also examine your yard’s grade. Ideally, water would drain away from your home rather than toward it.
Make your basement watertight
Among these methods are the use of waterproof coatings, the sealing of cracks, and the installation of a French drain or internal weeping tile system, among others. While post-flood repair is also an investment, this one is more upfront.
Thoroughly clean the gutters
That’s dull. It slips our minds easily. However, blocked gutters are a cunning way water finds its way into your basement.
Already Battling a Water Emergency in the Basement?
To begin, there is no need to freak out if your basement doubles as a pool. Be quick, though.
To stop the spread of mold and other damage, water must be removed from a flooded basement without delay. No matter the time of day, our flood restoration specialists at ONT Restoration Services are ready to respond. Everything from water extraction to complete flood repair is within our expertise, as we have assisted countless households with similar issues.
Last Remarks: The Power of Prevention
There is a way to ensure that your basement will never flood again, despite how terrifying it is. You can safeguard your house (and your sanity) for many years by keeping up with upkeep and making some wise changes.
Is assistance required? Regardless of whether you are completely submerged or simply desire an evaluation at no cost, ONT Restoration Services is here to help.