The last thing any Northern Michigan homeowner wants to discover is basement flooding. Just picture the scene; you open up the door to the basement stairs. At the very bottom, instead of the lower three steps, you see nothing but murky water. It’s a mess — an expensive, terrible, odorous mess.
A flooded basement incurs severe costs and health concerns. The entire room is, for starters, unusable. Then, consider the loss of belongings. Most of us keep old boxes of personal effects in the basement. Last but not least is the fact that a basement flood is usually caused by rainwater or sewage. We know both to cause severe health and safety concerns in and around the home.
What Causes a Flooded Basement?
If your home has a basement, then it’s prone to flood damage. There are numerous causes behind the inches of water covering your basement floor. The most common include:
- Plumbing Leaks — A burst or leaking pipe, waste line, or broken supply hose on an appliance will quickly flood a basement if not discovered immediately.
- Leaky Windows — If your basement has window wells, as most do, the space is at risk for water leaks and flood damage because of heavy rains.
- Leaky Foundation — The most common cause of basement flooding is a leaky foundation. As excessive rain, poor yard drainage, and sewer backups take their toll, your foundation cracks and shifts, allowing more water into your basement.
How to Prevent Basement Flooding
The best way to prevent basement flooding is through preventative measures.
- Gutters — Your home’s gutter system and downspouts push excess rainfall away from your home’s foundation. If both are poorly maintained, the water accumulates and causes foundation cracks to form.
- Foundation Cracks — Speaking of foundation cracks, the moment you notice one forming in the exterior foundation or basement walls and floors, take action. You can use epoxy to fill foundation cracks or, better yet, call an expert.
- Sump Pumps — If you have a below-grade sump pump, ensure it is clean and free of debris regularly. It’s often best to schedule sump pump maintenance with a professional every few months for the best results.
- Window Wells — If your basement has window wells, consider investing in covers. These window well covers fasten to your home’s foundation and prevent rain, leaves, and bugs from entering.
Before the rain season comes storming in, prep your home’s exterior and basement to reduce the risk of flood damage. It’s best to hire a professional like Story Basement Technologies for any task you are uncomfortable completing or any you may lack knowledge in completing.