How To Stop Basement From Flooding : Basedhomed

How to Stop Basement From Flooding

A flooded basement can be a major headache, causing damage to your belongings, your home's structure, and even your health. Fortunately, there are a number of things you can do to prevent your basement from flooding, or to minimize the damage if it does flood.

1. Waterproof your basement. This is the most effective way to prevent flooding, and it involves sealing the walls and floor of your basement with a waterproof membrane. There are a number of different waterproofing membranes available, so talk to a professional to find the one that is right for your home.

2. Install a sump pump. A sump pump is a device that pumps water out of your basement when the water level rises. Sump pumps are typically installed in the lowest part of your basement, and they are activated by a float switch that turns on when the water level reaches a certain point. Sump pumps are a good backup plan in case your waterproofing membrane fails, and they can also help to prevent flooding if your basement is prone to flooding from heavy rains or melting snow.

3. Keep your gutters and downspouts clean. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow and flood your basement. Make sure to clean your gutters and downspouts regularly, and extend them so that they direct water away from your home's foundation.

4. Grade your lawn away from your home's foundation. The ground around your home should slope away from the foundation, so that water drains away from your home rather than towards it. If your lawn is not graded properly, water can pool around your foundation and seep into your basement.

5. Seal any cracks in your foundation. Cracks in your foundation can allow water to seep into your basement. Inspect your foundation regularly for cracks, and seal them as soon as you find them. You can use a hydraulic cement or a polyurethane sealant to seal cracks.

6. Elevate your belongings. If your basement is prone to flooding, elevate your belongings off the floor. Store your belongings in plastic bins or on shelves, and make sure that they are high enough off the ground so that they will not be damaged if the basement floods.

7. Have a flood plan in place. In the event of a flood, it is important to have a plan in place. Know where you will go and what you will do if your basement floods. Make sure you have a way to contact your insurance company and a plumber, and have a list of important belongings that you need to evacuate.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your basement from flooding, or to minimize the damage if it does flood.