When it comes to home maintenance and protecting your home from risks, water damage prevention is very important. Water damage is the top single cause of property damage losses, accounting for almost half of all property damage claims. Basement flooding is a top cause for property damage caused by water damage, so we thought we’d give some tips on how to reduce the risk of water damage from basements flooding. See below for our top tips!
Test Sump Pump & Install Backup Power
It’s important to check to see if your basement has a sump basin, and to also test the sump pump to ensure it’s working OK. A sump pump is commonly found in the basement of homes, and is used to get rid of any water that has been accumulating in a water-collecting sump basin. It’s also important to install back-up power in case heavy rain knocks out the power too.
Install & Maintain a Backwater Valve
If you don’t have a backwater valve installed already, you may want to consider installing one. A backwater valve is a device used for backflow prevention. It prevents outbound water from back flowing (re-entering into the home.)
Keep ALL Drains Clear & Clean
Usually when basements flood, it’s because there is too much water coming in, and not enough being drained. That’s why it’s important to keep ALL drains clear and clean. There are two main drains you need to keep in mind for this; your basement floor drain(s), and also the street drain(s) close to your home.
Keep Basement Floor Drains Clear of Clutter
Ensuring that your basement floor drain(s) are clear of clutter will ensure that if water ever does somehow get into your basement that it can quickly be drained out automatically.
Remove Debris From Nearest Storm Drains Around Your Home’s Street
One of the main reasons that basements flood is because the street drains around the house are cluttered with debris, and the water is accumulating around the home. Make sure that if there is heavy periods of rain, that the street drains around your home are cleared of too much debris at all times.
Store ALL Valuables in Watertight Containers
When basements flood, much of the damage comes from the valuables in the basement itself getting wet. That’s why it’s always a great idea to store as many valuables as possible in watertight containers and water resistance storage/packing. This will minimize the amount of property damage if you ever find yourself with a flooding basement.
Correct Grading Levels Around Foundation If Needed
If the grading levels around your foundation are not graded to a level that allows water to flow AWAY from your home, it may be worthwhile correcting these grading levels. This will further decrease the risk of water building-up around your house.
Install Wells & Covers to Basement Windows
Basement windows can be extremely vulnerable to water accumulation and damage, if not protected properly. Installing simple window wells and covers around your basement windows will minimize these vulnerabilities.
