How To Prevent Flood Damage in Basements

4/26/2022 (Permalink)

Blog Summary: SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall Explains How To Prevent Flooding And Flood Damage In Basements.

Flooding in homes can happen suddenly. Millions of homes across the US get flooded due to heavy rains, and the overflow from nearby water bodies results. However, many US homes get flooded from sources within them. Water damage can occur from failure in plumbing systems which can flood homes. Water damage can be destructive. It can have long-term effects on the property value and even the health of its occupants. Flood restoration services can be expensive too, depending on the extent of the damage.

SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall provides restoration services after a fire, smoke, or water damage. This company has highly trained restoration technicians and is locally owned and operated. As trusted leaders in the property damage restoration industry, they have the training, equipment, and resources to handle a disaster of any size. They serve different local communities across Pennsylvania, including in Whitehall, PA. In this article, SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall explain how to prevent flooding in basements. 

What Causes Basement Flooding?

Heavy rains: Rainstorms can cause flooding in basements.

Leaks in Plumbing: Leaks in pipes, burst pipes, and faulty appliances can flood a basement. 

Leaky Windows: Basement windows can go unnoticed and when not maintained, window wells can be filled with water that leaks into the basement. 

Cracks In The Foundation: Temperature changes, settlement, and soil moisture levels can cause cracks in the foundation. Foundation cracks are a common cause of basement flooding.

Faulty Appliances: A water heater that crosses its lifespan is at risk of bursting. Burst water heaters can rapidly flood a basement. Washing machines can leak when they are faulty too.

How To Prevent Flooding in Basements

Gutter Maintenance: Gutters must be cleaned at least twice a year. Natural debris like twigs or leaves can block gutters and push rainwater down the siding and around the home. Water that pools can get into the basement through cracks in the foundation. 

Extend Downspouts: Extending downspouts so that water is directed away from the house foundation helps direct water away from the house. Downspout extensions are available at local hardware stores and are easily installable. 

Grading the Yard: If water pools around the home when it rains it indicates poor grading. Water must be channeled away from the home. A landscaper can help to grade the lawn away from the home. 

Inspecting The Foundation For Cracks: Foundation cracks cause water to permeate the concrete. Inspecting the foundation a few times a year and sealing them can help prevent basement flooding. 

Maintaining A Gap Between Mulch and Sliding: Having a gap of around 6 inches between flower beds and the wall of a house will help move water away from the building when there is a rainstorm. 

Watering Lawns Properly: Overwatering lawns can lead to basement flooding problems. Only the recommended amount of water for the lawn and plants must be provided. Sprinklers must be placed so that they are clear of the house and must be programmed so that the lawn is not watered excessively.

Maintenance: The plumbing and appliances like heaters and washing machines must be checked and maintenance work done as needed. This will help prevent leaking and resulting flood damage to an extent.

Sump Pump Installation and Maintenance: Sump pumps must be installed and regular maintenance work done. They help to prevent large-scale flooding and are a good investment in areas prone to flooding. 

Keep Windows Covered: Window well covers will help to protect basement windows from rainwater seeping into the basement through windows. Clear acrylic window covers will offer protection while keeping water out. 

Have Power Backup: A backup generator will keep electricity, heat, pump, and septic tank operating in case of a power outage. When these don't operate the risk of the basement flooding rises.

All these steps will help to reduce the risk of flood damage. However, there can always be accidental causes that lead to flooding. Homeowners in flood-prone areas could take an insurance policy for flood damage after enquiring. Flood damage restoration is tedious and time-sensitive. A professional company will be helpful in providing flood damage restoration services. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall provides 24-hour emergency services and responds immediately to a flood or water damage. With highly trained water restoration technicians who provide advanced water inspection, extraction, and drying services, they are the best choice to handle flood damage. SERVPRO of Easton, Bethlehem, and Whitehall can be contacted at any time, on any day of the week for fire and water damage restoration services at (610) 559-9380.