Water damage prevention is essential when it comes to home maintenance and protecting your home from risks.
Water damage is the top single cause of property damage losses, accounting for almost half of all property damage claims. Basement flooding is a leading cause of property damage caused by water damage, so we thought we’d give some tips on reducing the risk of flooding from basements. 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 test the 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 accumulating in a water-collecting sump basin. It’s also essential to install backup power in case heavy rain knocks out the power too.
Install & Maintain a Backwater Valve
If you don’t have a backwater valve, you may consider installing one. A backwater valve is a device used for backflow prevention, and it prevents outbound water from back flowing (re-entering into the home.)
Keep ALL Drains Clear & Clean
Usually, basements flood because too much water is coming in and not enough is drained. That’s why it’s important to keep ALL drains clear and clean. You need to keep two main drains in mind: your basement floor drain(s) and 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, it can quickly be drained out automatically.
Remove Debris From the 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 areare heavy periods of rain, the street drains around your home are clear 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 storing as many valuables as possible in watertight containers, and water-resistance storage/packing is always a great idea. This will minimize property damage if you are in a flooded 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, correcting these grading levels may be worthwhile. This will further decrease the risk of moisture building up around your house.
Install Wells & Covers to Basement Windows
Basement windows can be highly vulnerable to water accumulation and damage if not appropriately protected. Installing simple window wells and covers around your basement windows will minimize these vulnerabilities.
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