How to Prevent Basement Floods
Over 280,000 homes in Minnesota have a greater than 26% chance of being severely affected by flooding in the near future. While natural disasters are usually the most severe, even a busted pipe can cause major damage to your home. To help reduce that risk, there are several preventative measures you can take to either minimize the damage or prevent a flood entirely. If you’ve already experienced a basement flood you can always contact your water damage cleanup experts at Rapid Restoration.
Ways to Prevent a Basement Flood
When was the last time you had a professional come take a look at all elements of your home to find any flaws or aging? If it’s been five years or more then you should consider performing this essential task. During an inspection they may be able to find weak spots in your roof, walls, siding, or plumbing, or that your water heater is too old. Many flood risks can be prevented by simply performing an inspection and following the guidance of those experts. Remember, before making any major changes to your home be sure to get a professional inspector. These are some typical suggestions you may hear to prevent any future water damage!
Repair Or Install A Sump Pump
Not all homes come with a sump pump, but it’s wise to check and then buy one if needed. A sump pump is a machine designed to pump water out of your basement and into a safe place. even if your area is not prone to flooding, a sump pump is a good precautionary measure to prevent a small leak from turning into a flood.
Learn more about sump pumps and how you can prevent them from breaking.
Have a Plumber Check for Leaks
Your plumbing, no matter what material it’s made out of, is not designed to last for 20 years or more. If your home is approaching 20 years or older it’s important that you have a professional come inspect your pipes. Not only could the pipes themselves be swollen, cracked, or clogged, the pieces that attach your pipes could be worn and viable to burst. Tell your local plumber to come to have a look, and pay special attention to all pipes leading to and from your basement.
Patch Any Holes in Your Roof
You might think that a roof isn’t going to affect your basement because they are on opposite ends. But all water flows downward and it is likely that it will end up in your basement with no way of getting out. Check your roof for weak spots, “heavy” spots, and existing holes. Again it is recommended to have a professional take a look if you suspect there may be issues.
Weather Strip Windows and Doors
You can easily avoid basement flooding by weather-stripping your windows and doors. This should be done on all of your windows and doors, not just those near the basement. Watch this video to see how to do this simple but effective anti-leak measure.
Tune Your Water Heater
Water heaters are only designed to last about 20 years. If you have one getting up there in age it might be time to either get a new one or at least get it examined for necessary repairs. Older water heaters tend to either leak or break entirely, which can flood your basement. Get your water heater looked at every few years to prevent this!
Install and Repair Roof Gutters
Roof gutters are not something you can skip if you’re building a home. They are designed to redirect roof water to the ground and away from your home, so if you need some, do it! If you think it might be time to get them repaired, don’t hesitate! Some obvious signs of repair are cracks, stoppages, improper slopping, and sagging.
Check Your Water Supply for Leaks/Cracks
Your home’s water supply can be turned on and off on the outside of your home. Like a faucet or hose spigot, they can also wear down and leak. Because it’s often right next to your basement, or sometimes even in the basement, it can be a danger zone if left untreated. This is something a home inspector or plumber will be able to fix!
Grade Your Lawn Correctly
Your lawn shouldn’t slope directly toward your house. Instead, it should slope toward the street. When it rains, the water has to go somewhere and if your lawn is sloped towards your basement, it will go there. Take a walk around your home and see if this is an issue. If it is, there are many ideas that can decrease your flood risk while still being aesthetically pleasing.
Better Window Well Covers
A basement window is the most common place for flooding to occur. You can minimize the risk of flooding with a simple clear acrylic cover that slopes away from your house but still lets light in. As an added bonus they also help keep out rain, leaves, and even pests. Find some that fasten securely to your home’s foundation for best results.
Rapid Can Help
Even if you follow all these preventative measures, it’s still possible for your basement to flood. If you have experienced a basement flood, no matter how minor, you can trust in Rapid Restoration to get your basement dry and clean again. We offer water removal, drying, and mold remediation services. All you need to do if your basement has flooded is call us at 612-999-1806 today!
Want to learn more about water damage and what you can do to prevent it? Check out our complete guide to water damage!
