Basement Flooding

Flooded basements are one of the most frustrating occurrences for a homeowner. It is assumed that basement flooding is mainly caused by just natural forces like a rain storm. This is not the case. Flooded basements usually occur because of construction issues of the house or problems with the sewer system. There are steps that can be taken to avoid basement flooding.

Chronic basement flooding can result in many bad effects for homeowners. The wetness can lead to an increase in respiratory issues. It can also be expensive to clean up and restore a finished basement. In the end it can affect you property value and resale value.

Flooded basements often occur during heavy rainfall or large snow melt. These types of leaks are often caused by poor drainage, failure of the foundation drains, leaking of basement walls, the rising of ground water from over saturated soil, and issues with the gutters. The gutters may overflow or redirect water because of blocked downspouts.

Other reasons for basement flooding include a possible plugged connection between the house and the main sewer line under the street. Flooding can also be the result of back ups of the wastewater and rainwater in the sewer system. Another reason for flooding in the basement is the failure of a sump pump that is meant to drain foundation tiles.

There are many reasons the flooding occurs. There are also ways to prevent this from occurring. You should first start out by inspecting the entire system from the gutters on down to the connection to the municipal water system. The whole system has to work for things to run smoothly.

The water must flow freely from the gutters down through the downspouts. Make sure that these are unblocked. The downspouts must be aimed away from the house. They cannot be aimed so that water heads towards the walls of the basement or windows of the basement. It is suggested that they be extended at least six feet from the wall. You do not want your downspouts connected directly to the sewer system of your home. Make sure your gutters flow freely. You may need to replace them with larger gutters.

You can also prevent a flooded basement by making sure that the land around your house does not have a slope towards the foundation. If it does, you are in danger of having rainwater and snowmelt that drips into the foundation tile become overwhelmed. The drainage system can only handle a certain amount. You should not allow it to become stressed. You may have some grading to do to get this done but it will be worth the investment. For at least six feet out from the foundation the land should angle away from the house. Water needs to drain away from the walls of the basement.

If the drainage system in your home or neighborhood is likely to flood periodically you will want to invest in a sump pump or back flow valve. This installation may necessitate getting a plumbing permit to install. You may want to contact a plumber for this installation.