Every house owner knows that the basement can be one of the most high-risk areas for flood damage because it is the lowest point of the building and thus is surrounded by soil moisture. Basement flooding will be most likely to occur following a severe winter storm or even outdoor flooding. However, even light rain can lead to a basement flood as groundwater seeps in.
Water Damage Restoration Augusta
It is crucial to know how water enters the basement so that you can take preventative measures ahead of time. The following are some of the most common causes of groundwater entering your basement that you should be aware of.
Yard Grading
Most property owners neglect this detail, but yard grading around your house is extremely important. The ground should slope away from the building to allow water to drain much further away from the property. If your lawn slopes towards your house, excess water would then drain in the same direction, increasing the risk of your basement flooding. Extra water pooling in your yard is an indication of poor grading.
Ineffective Gutters
Guttering is essential for preventing basement flood damage because it transports rainwater away from the property to the drain. When gutters are damaged or clogged, they fill up and allow water to accumulate near the side of the house. If the soil near your home absorbs too much water, it will eventually end up in your basement.
Foundation Cracks
The final line of protection against basement floods is the foundation. It is almost impossible to prevent flooding from groundwater sources if your foundation has fractured. Many property owners are unaware of the cracks until they experience basement flooding. You should regularly check your foundation for fractures and seal them before they cause flooding. You should also consider waterproofing the basement to ensure groundwater stays out.
Faulty Supply Lines Or Appliances
Because water supply lines run inside the lower levels of households, should any of them leak or break, the basement can flood. Most appliances that could leak water, including hot water heaters, washers, and water softeners, are found in basements. Excess water in the basement causes a number of issues for your household and its belongings, so do everything you can to avoid a flooded basement. Inspecting these potential causes in advance can save you the money and frustration of future flood damage repair.
Damaged Drainage Tiles
During construction, drainage systems are installed around houses to divert excess water away from the structure and prevent flooding. The water will not drain effectively if the tiles inside the system are cracked, broken, or even damaged. An expert can assess the drainage system to see if it is the source of the flooding.
Water damage from flooding, or any other cause, should be handled by a water damage specialist as quickly as possible. Be aware of the possible flood risks in your basement, and if you ever experience flood damage, leave the water damage cleaning to the professionals at Rumsey Construction and Restoration. Don’t hesitate to call us today.
