How to Prevent a Flooded Basement

Install and Maintain a Sump Pump

The first step is to ensure you have a sump pump installed in your basement. These important devices will help drain water away from your basement in an emergency situation. Most new homes are built with one in place, but homeowners with historic or older homes may have never installed a sump pump. If thats the case, it's recommended to invest in a sump pump installation. It's also important to conduct routine maintenance to ensure the reliability of your sump pump, and include it in your annual plumbing and electrical inspections.

Use Proper Landscaping Techniques

Planting trees too close to your foundation, or engaging in poor landscaping practices can cause big problems. Uncontrolled root growth can create cracks in your basement and large pools of water may settle near your basement walls, causing weakness and excess moisture. If necessary, consider consulting a professional landscape designer to ensure that new plants are properly placed throughout your yard. If you discover a problematic tree, shrub or ornamental plant, you might want to hire a specialist who can help you better control your roots and soil conditions.

Take Care of Your Gutters and Downspouts

Clean out your gutters at least twice a year. Doing so will keep rainwater directed into the downspouts, where the flow will be guided to a street or ditch. If the gutters and spouts are clogged with leaves and debris, then the water will pour off the sides, and can quickly flood the perimeter of your basement.

Make Sure Windows Are Sealed

Basements can be dark and dreary. For families who convert their basements into additional living space, windows are commonly added to allow natural sunlight into the room. However, be sure to properly seal the windows. Otherwise, a single powerful storm could cause a destructive amount of water to invade your basement through the openings in the window. Be sure to use reinforced glass or acrylic. Flash floods can produce enough strength and speed to crush through delicate materials. Window well covers are an excellent way to provide an extra layer of protection against the elements.

Inspect Your Sewer Line and Plumbing System Regularly