7 Simple Steps to Help Prevent Basement Flooding

Basement flooding can sneak up on you and get really expensive to fix. Not to mention, mold can start growing within just a day or two, which is not only gross but can also be bad for your health. The good news? A few easy steps can help you avoid all that hassle.

1. Keep Water Away from Your Foundation

Cleaning out your gutters may not be your favorite chore, but it’s super important. Clearing out leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts helps rain and snow drain properly. This keeps water from pooling around your foundation, which could lead to needing costly foundation repairs.

Pro tip: Make sure water is diverted at least three feet away from your foundation. You might need to grab some downspout extensions or troughs to help with this.

2. Check Your Landscaping

Take a look at how the ground slopes around your house. If the grading (that’s just a fancy word for the slope of the dirt) isn’t right, water could be flowing toward your foundation instead of away from it. And that’s a big no-no.

Even things like patios and walkways that tilt towards your house can send water straight to your foundation. Luckily, there are affordable options to adjust the slope and keep water moving away from your home.

3. Fix Foundation Cracks ASAP

It’s normal for poured concrete to develop some vertical shrinkage cracks over time. But don’t ignore them! These cracks can let water sneak into your basement. Take a look at your basement walls regularly, and if you spot a damp crack, get it fixed right away before it causes bigger problems.

4. Stay on Top of Sump Pump Maintenance

Your sump pump is your basement’s first line of defense against flooding, so it’s crucial to make sure it’s working properly. If your pump kicks on several times a day, you’ll want to check it often. Pumps that run less frequently might last 4-5 years, but if your pump is working overtime, it could wear out in just a couple of years. Remember, most insurance policies won’t cover water damage from a sump pump failure, so it’s better to be safe than sorry.

When picking a new sump pump, go for a submersible one if your pit has enough space. These pumps allow you to cover the pit with an airtight lid, reducing noise, keeping moisture out of your home, and helping prevent mold and insects. Also, look for a pump with a cast iron core, which helps extend the pump’s life.

5. Invest in a Generator or Backup Battery

Since sump pumps run on electricity, they’ll stop working if the power goes out during a storm. If the power stays out long enough, your sump pit could overflow, leading to a flooded basement.

To avoid this, consider installing a secondary pump and a generator or backup battery. A secondary pump kicks in if the primary pump fails, and a generator or backup battery will keep things running if the power goes out. Some backup batteries can last up to 24 hours and even send you a text alert if the power goes out.

6. Keep Your Sewer Lines Clean

It’s easy to forget about your sewer lines until there’s a problem, but regular cleaning can help you avoid unexpected sewer backups. And just so you know, having a sump pump doesn’t mean your sewer system won’t overflow—they’re two separate systems, and both need regular maintenance.

7. Install Window Well Covers

Most newer homes have a big window in the basement for emergencies, but the well around that window can collect rainwater. If that water pools up, it can eventually seep into your basement. To keep the water out but still let light in, install a clear acrylic window well cover.

Taking these simple steps can save you a lot of trouble (and money) in the long run. Plus, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your basement is well-protected!