7 Ways to Keep Water Out of Your Basement

How to Keep Water Out of Your Basement

Flooded basement is usually a homeowner’s nightmare that can lead to costly repairs and significant headaches. Whether it’s due to heavy rainfall, poor drainage, or cracks in your foundation, water intrusion in basements is a common problem faced by many.

But fear not! In this blog post, we’ll explore a range of effective strategies and preventive measures to help you keep water at bay and ensure your basement remains dry and functional. From simple maintenance tasks to more comprehensive waterproofing solutions, we’ve got you covered.

Ways to Keep Water Out of Your Basement

Water entering your basement due to drainage problems, flash floods, appliance failures or other reasons can cause severe damage to your home. Here’s what you can do to stop water from accumulating into your basement:

1. Clean rain gutters.

Blocked gutters may cause roof water to pour directly into your home’s foundation, increasing the risk of basement flooding. Remove any debris, such as leaves or branches from the gutters and check the gutters for loose particles if you have asphalt roofing. Tighten any loose gutter straps and spout extensions. If there is gunk in the downspouts, clean them by pouring water into the downspouts with a garden hose.

2. Extend downspouts.

To protect your basement from excess water, downspouts should extend at least five feet away from your house. This can be achieved by adding plastic or metal extensions to the downspouts. Alternatively, consider having an underground drain pipe installed. This system can send gutter run-off away from your house.

3. Slope the ground away from your foundation.

Make sure that the ground next to your foundation slopes away from the foundation to divert rainwater away from your home. The “crown” of dirt around your house should slope at least six inches over the first 10 feet in all directions.

4. Seal gaps in the basement.

Water may leak into your basement through gaps or cracks around plumbing pipes or cracks in concrete walls. Seal these gaps with polyurethane caulk or hydraulic cement. However, if water comes through the floor, sealing gaps won’t do the trick and you need to fix the groundwater problem.

5. Install a French drain.

For serious water problems, install a curtain drain such as a French drain. This type of drainage system consists of a series of underground pipes that diverts water away from your home’s foundation.

6. Waterproof interior basement walls.

Condensation that forms on basement walls may be prevented by applying sealant on the walls. You can waterproof basement walls with concrete coatings, silicate-based concrete sealers, waterproofing paint or plastic sheets or panels. Alternatively, waterproof exterior walls of the basement to fix gaps in the foundation, although it’s a costly job that requires excavating around the house.

7. Install a sump pump.

These devices provide protection against flooding by pumping out water that has accumulated in the sump basin. When the water level in the basement floor rises, the sump pump will automatically discharge the water outside your house. Learn how to choose a sump pump here and how to test a sump pump in this article.

In case your basement has flooded, call a water damage contractor immediately. To avoid safety hazards, don’t enter the basement and make sure to not make direct contact with floodwater. For flood water damage repair and mold remediation service, contact the PuroClean of Bullshead office on (347) 501-6155.

In conclusion, keeping water out of your basement is essential for maintaining a dry, functional, and healthy living space. By implementing a combination of preventive measures such as maintaining gutters, downspouts, and grading, installing a sump pump system, and sealing cracks and leaks promptly, you can significantly reduce the risk of basement flooding during heavy rain events.

Remember, regular maintenance and vigilance are key to safeguarding your basement against water intrusion and ensuring a comfortable and safe environment for you and your family. With these strategies in place, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing that your basement is well-protected against the threat of water damage.

How do you prevent basement flooding during heavy rain?

Preventing basement flooding during heavy rain involves a combination of proactive measures. First and foremost, ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clean and properly directed away from your home’s foundation to prevent water from pooling around the basement walls. Additionally, consider installing a sump pump system with a battery backup to efficiently remove excess water during heavy rain events. Properly grading the soil around your home can also help divert water away from the foundation. Finally, inspect your basement regularly for cracks or leaks and seal them promptly to prevent water intrusion.

Is it okay to use a dehumidifier in a basement?

Yes, using a dehumidifier in a basement is generally a good idea, especially in areas with high humidity levels or where water intrusion has occurred in the past. Dehumidifiers help remove excess moisture from the air, which can prevent mold growth, musty odors, and damage to belongings stored in the basement. Be sure to choose a dehumidifier with adequate capacity for the size of your basement and empty the collection reservoir regularly to maintain its effectiveness.

What soaks up water in a basement?

Several materials can absorb water in a basement, helping to prevent flooding and moisture buildup. One common option is using moisture-absorbing crystals or desiccants placed in containers or bags strategically positioned around the basement. Additionally, installing moisture-absorbing materials such as clay-based floor treatments or specialized basement flooring can help mitigate moisture issues. Proper ventilation and air circulation can also aid in drying out a damp basement by promoting evaporation.