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No one anticipates having a flood in their home but in worst-case scenarios, inclement weather or household accidents can result in flooding. Whether your basement is empty or you’ve converted it into something else, it’s a good idea to keep your basement belongings protected against flooding. With effective waterproofing materials and protective measures, you’ll be able to prepare for the worst.
Protecting the Basement Against Flooding
Rising waters are no fun, especially if your house gets flooded. Flooding in the basement can cause extensive damage to your valuables and can be incredibly expensive to fix. Try the following tips to keep your basement safeguarded against future floods:
1. Buy Insurance
Home insurance isn’t something most people think about until they need it. When disaster strikes, it can be devastating to realize you aren’t covered for one reason or another. To prevent damage and protect your home, look into what coverage options are available and opt for adequate insurance that includes flood damage. Keep in mind that homeowner’s insurance is rarely all-inclusive; there are plenty of opportunities for coverage gaps, so check with your provider if you’re unsure about whether you’re adequately covered. The last thing you want is a flooded basement at a time when you can’t afford major repairs!
2. Use Waterproofing Products
Waterproofing your basement is a major investment, but it is a must for all homeowners. Use basement waterproofing products to protect the foundation and basement against sump pump failures and water damage. These products can be installed directly by professional contractors or applied at home with special equipment. As you waterproof your basement, make sure you’re protecting yourself from leaks and water damage in other areas of your home. Repair any cracks in your foundation and ensure that downspouts drain properly into gutters or storm drains. This way, any water that’s seeping through should be redirected away from the foundation walls.
3. Check Windows and Doors
Another easy way to prevent flooding in your basement is by checking windows and doors. The majority of flood damage can be avoided by making sure water doesn’t find its way into your home through these openings. Make sure windows are raised when it rains, even if it’s just a little bit of rain. It’s also important to check whether doors leading outside are waterproofed; many homeowners don’t know their front or back door is susceptible to leaks until they already have water damage. You can use sealant or silicone around door frames, replace worn weather stripping, adjust thresholds to make sure your home stays dry.
4. Maintain Proper Drainage Systems
Another way to keep flooding at bay is to regularly check your home’s drainage systems. Many things can affect drainage, so be sure to regularly check for clogs and breakages. It’s ideal to perform an inspection once a month or at least twice a year, but if there has been recent construction in your area, consider doing it more often. This way, you can stay on top of any issues and head off potential problems before they happen. For example, if runoff from recent storms has damaged your landscaping or foundation due to high water levels, take measures now so that it doesn’t occur again.
5. Grade the Lawn Away From Your Home
When you grade your lawn, make sure that your yard slopes away from your house. This direction decreases pressure on your foundation and helps prevent basement flooding. Grading also involves adding sod or topsoil where it’s needed to create a smooth surface, giving water no chance to pool. If you’re not up for doing this preventative landscaping on your own, consider hiring a landscaping company or general contractor who specializes in grading services. Another option is to have an engineer assess any damage and recommend fixes to your landscaping and home in general.
Conclusion
Luckily, there are several simple things you can do to prevent flooding in your basement to prevent major damage and expensive repairs. Use these tips to protect your house and prevent any future flooding in your basement or the rest of your home.
