There’s no doubt that basement flooding can be a destructive and costly event for any homeowner or property owner. Should it happen, the potential for widespread water damage and structural compromise is real. Water can ruin drywall and flooring. Worse, it can seep into foundation walls, causing them to crack or shift, leading to costly repairs and even compromising the structural integrity of an entire house. If that isn’t bad enough, the after-effects of such moisture can create an ideal mold and mildew growth environment, which could lead to serious health issues and create long-term problems for occupants.
The Importance of Preparation
Once a basement floods, cleaning up the water damage can be challenging and overwhelming. That’s why preparing your basement to handle potential water issues beforehand is the best way for homeowners to minimize the risk of flooding and protect their investment. For example, if your house is situated below street level or the grading slopes toward the house rather than away, it’s a good idea to address such vulnerabilities in advance. A combination of regular maintenance and early detection of potential water issues are key to avoiding expensive repairs and safeguarding the home’s structural stability. To help keep your basement dry and prevent long-term damage to your home, Octagon recommends the following steps:
Inspect and Clear Perimeter Drains
Perimeter drains, also called foundation drains or French drains, are a system of perforated pipes installed around the base of a house’s foundation. Their primary purpose is to redirect water away from the foundation to prevent it from seeping into the house. To inspect and clear perimeter drains around a house, start by locating the drain outlets or cleanout ports, often found near the foundation or in a drainage ditch. Check for visible signs of blockages, such as standing water, slow drainage, or debris at the outlet. You can even use a flashlight to inspect inside the pipes for obstructions like mud, leaves, or roots. If clogged, flush the drains with a garden hose or use a drain snake to break up blockages. Be sure that downspouts are connected to the drains if necessary, and are free of debris, cracks, and properly aligned so that water flows away from the foundation.
Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are necessary for directing rainwater away from a house’s foundation to a safe drainage area, such as a yard slope, splash block, or drainage pipe. Gutters should be regularly cleaned each fall, removing debris like leaves, twigs, dirt, and an occasional bird nest. Inspect downspouts to ensure they are securely attached, and extend at least 4-6 feet away from the foundation, so the water flows naturally downhill. Regularly inspect the system after particularly heavy rains to ensure proper water flow and adjust if pooling occurs near the foundation.
Sump Pump Tests
Sump pumps remove excess water that accumulates around the foundation during heavy rains or rising groundwater levels. They are typically located in the lowest part of a basement or crawlspace, near the foundation’s edge, inside a specially designed pit called a sump basin. If a sump pump malfunctions, it can lead to water backup and flooding, causing costly damage to the foundation and belongings.
Sump pumps can be electrically powered or manually powered. To test an electric sump pump, ensure it’s plugged in, the discharge pipe is clear, and directs water away from the house. Pour a bucket of water into the sump basin to raise the float and confirm the pump activates, pumps out the water, and shuts off once the water level drops. For manual systems, lift the float arm to simulate rising water. Listen for unusual noises or vibrations that might indicate mechanical issues. If the pump has a battery backup, verify the battery is charged and operational. Regular testing ensures the pump is functioning properly to prevent basement flooding.
Dehumidifier
Finally, invest in a dehumidifier. Running a dehumidifier in a damp basement can help keep moisture levels under control by extracting excess humidity from the air for basements prone to high humidity. Otherwise, high humidity can lead to mold, mildew, and wood rot. Operating a dehumidifier can also improve air quality and help reduce odors. It’s recommended to keep humidity levels typically between 30-50% to prevent mold growth.
If Your Basement Floods, Call Octagon Cleaning & Restoration
If your basement floods, choosing the right water damage restoration company can make a significant difference in the recovery process, helping minimize losses and protect your home or business investment. Octagon Cleaning & Restoration stands out as industry leaders in water mitigation and professional water restoration services. With 24/7 emergency water damage services in Maine and New Hampshire, our experienced team is equipped to handle all aspects of the restoration process, from initial assessment and water extraction to drying, cleaning, and sanitizing. For more information, contact us or, for immediate service call, (207) 893-0002, in Maine; or in New Hampshire, (603) 239-2100.
