Unless it’s in the form of an in-ground pool, no one wants water in their basement. Not only can it cause significant structural damage, but it can also lead to dangerous mold and mildew growth. Yet for many homeowners, it’s a common occurrence, especially during periods of heavy.
Read on to learn what might be causing this problem and what you can do about it to protect your home and belongings.
Common Causes of Basement Flooding
Basements are vulnerable to flooding because they’re built partially, if not fully, below ground. There are several causes of basement flooding, ranging from weather to burst pipes and drainage issues.
Improper Grading: When water is not properly directed away from a home’s foundation, it can accumulate and seep into the basement, leading to leaks, moisture problems, and potential structural damage. Regrading changes the slope of the ground around a home’s foundation so that rainwater, snowmelt, and surface runoff flow away from the house.
Clogged Gutters: Gutters are designed to collect rainwater from the roof and direct it away from the home, and when they are clean and free of debris, they can efficiently do their job. However, when gutters become clogged, water will instead overflow and collect around the base of the home. From here, it can begin to leak into the basement. Clean your gutters twice a year and make sure downspouts extend at least two feet away from your home’s foundation.
Leaky Window Wells: Window wells are common sites for basement leaks. While they’re built to allow natural light into a basement while also providing a means of escape in case of an emergency, they can also allow rainwater to collect and seep in. A properly installed window well cover can direct rainwater away from the window and the basement, reducing the risk of water infiltration and potential basement leaks.
Foundation Cracks: It’s important to inspect your home’s foundation and basement walls for visible cracks – both vertical and horizontal – so they can be sealed to prevent more leaks and further damage. While some settling cracks are normal, others could signify a serious problem. When in doubt, have a professional inspect the cracks and properly seal them to prevent future leaks.
Added Protection for Your Basement
A sump pump professionally installed by Pann Home Services can effectively prevent water accumulation and protect your home from moisture-related issues. But what happens when the pump fails due to a mechanical issue or a power outage? That’s where a back-up sump pump comes in.
Unlike the home’s main sump pump, battery back-up sump pumps do not require electricity to run. It can provide several hours of continuous pumping and up to three days for non-continuous pumping without an electrical outlet. A battery back-up sump pump can give you peace of mind knowing that your basement will stay dry and safe from water damage should your main pump fail for any reason when you need it most. Ready to give your home the ultimate protection against basement flooding? Contact Pann Home Services & Remodeling today and ask about battery back-up sump pumps.
