Basements are especially at risk of flooding since they are usually constructed below ground level. Because of this, basement flooding can occur at any time of the year, rain or shine, due to the same factors that cause flooding during rainy seasons and rapid snowmelts. Weather, broken pipes, and poor drainage are just a few of the many potential sources of water in a basement.
Investigating what can lead to a flooded basement will pay dividends in the form of a well-prepared home and a dry basement. Read on for some of the most typical sources of basement flooding and advice on how to restore your flooded space.
Factors that Usually Lead to a Flooded Basement
A flooded basement is a nightmare waiting to happen. In order to avoid the nightmare of a flooded basement, it is essential to be aware of and take action against the most typical causes of such an incident. The most typical reasons for basement flooding are:
Cracks in the Basement’s Sealing
A house’s basement tiles and foundation must be properly sealed during construction. This is paramount in regions prone to hurricanes and other forms of extreme weather. Hurricanes are dangerous because they bring heavy rain and high winds, both of which can cause flooding in a home’s lower levels. Furthermore, snow-prone regions face the risk of basement flooding due to the seepage of melted snow.
Over time, water will seep in from the ground if the basement isn’t properly sealed. This could be the culprit if your basement consistently floods when it rains.
Damage to Drainage Tiles
A proper drainage system should be installed around every house to divert water away from the foundation. A basement could become flooded if the drainage tile system was poorly built or failed altogether, especially in the event of heavy rainfall. A skilled inspection is required to ascertain whether or not this is the true source of your basement flooding.
Downspouts That Were Not Installed Properly
The downspout is installed to carry water away from the house and its foundation. Drainage from downspouts should go away from the house, typically to the street or backyard, and should be at least five to six feet from the foundation wall of the basement. Water can creep slowly into the basement or pour in through gaps in the foundation of the damaged or missing downspouts.
Gutter Blockage From Debris
Gutters, also known as eavestroughs, are critical for directing water away from the foundation of a house and keeping the basement dry. Gutters near trees are more likely to become blocked with leaves, twigs, seed pods, and other debris. Clutter prevents rainwater from escaping the roof, traveling down the downspout, and then leaving the house. To avoid leaks caused by water pooling on the roof, make cleaning the gutters a regular part of your maintenance schedule. Fallen leaves and twigs should be swept up in the spring, but you may want to hire a pro to ensure everything is carefully cleared away.
Water that has cascaded down the sides of the house from overflowing gutters can collect there and eventually seep into the basement. The gutters in your home should be checked around 15 minutes after a storm to make sure they are not overflowing. The foundation could be harmed if the water overflows. A flooded basement floor is yet another hazard to be aware of during a severe storm.
Conclusion
Basement flooding is a serious problem that can be caused by a variety of factors. Heavy rains, clogged drains, busted pipes, and faulty sump pumps can all lead to basement flooding. Also, improper soil grading around the house, poor drainage, and inadequate waterproofing can also contribute to basement flooding. It is important to identify the cause of the flooding before attempting any repairs.
Taking the necessary steps to prevent basement flooding can save homeowners a lot of time and money in the long run.
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