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How to Prevent Basement Flooding

Heavy rains and unexpected  Basement flooding water levels should always be a concern for homeowners, especially those with basements. Flawed grading, foundation cracks, and clogged gutters can leave homeowners with a costly mess during especially heavy rainfall.

However, your basement should not be leaking and wet every time it rains. If this is a problem that you are experiencing, there are things that you can do to protect your basement and prevent future water intrusion. Taking the right precautions now can save you money, time, and headaches in the future.

Grade your lawn correctly.

If the yard around your home slopes toward the house instead of away from it, you are at risk of basement flooding. Ideally, a lawn should slope so that rainwater runs away from foundation walls and toward the street.

Leave a gap between mulch and siding.

When using mulch around the home, keep a barrier of about 6 inches or so between the landscaping and your outside walls. This is especially important with siding and other building materials that may not be as durable against water intrusion.

Clean gutters and extend downspouts.

Clean gutters in the spring and fall to keep rainwater flowing through them instead of back toward your outside walls and onto the foundation around the perimeter of your home. Also, extend downspouts at least three feet away from the foundation.

Look for and seal foundation cracks.

Inspect the exterior foundation and basement’s walls and floors for cracks. Use epoxy to fill any foundation cracks and if warning signs are detected, apply masonry sealer indoors. For more serious problems, call a professional.

Install window well covers.

If you have below-grade basement windows, install window well covers that fasten securely to your home’s foundation. Clear acrylic covers allow light to enter, while keeping rain, leaves, debris, and pests out.

Schedule sewer and septic inspections.

If you haven’t had your sewer inspected or your septic tank cleaned in a while, spring is a good time to address these concerns. During periods of prolonged, heavy rainfall, clogged sewers and over-taxed septic sytems are disasters waiting to happen.

Install a sump pump.

If your home is prone to basement water intrusion, a sump pump is your best line of defense. But keep in mind that a sump pump only works with electricity, so consider installing a battery-back up pump that will kick in in the event of a power outage to keep your basement nice and dry.

From leaking water heaters to sump pump installation and repair, and all the rest, you can count of Messmer Mechanical for expert service day or night. Contact us today or anytime you need us.