Table of Contents
Leaky basement foundation This is by far the most common cause of basement flooding. Excessive amounts of rain, poor yard drainage, and sewer backups are common culprits behind a leaky foundation.
How do I stop my basement from flooding?
8 Tips for Flood-Proofing a Basement Install a Sump Pump. Install a Backwater Valve. Seal Your Basement. Properly Grade Around the Foundation. Install a French Drain. Check Your Landscaping. Use Downspout Extensions. Keep Your Gutters Clean.
Is it normal for basements to flood?
Basements are by definition the base of your home, built either partly or entirely underground. This naturally means they are prone to flooding, even in dry weather. Gravity is typically at fault here.
How much does it cost to flood proof a basement?
The cost of waterproofing a basement varies based on a number of factors — the primary one being the square footage of your home. On average, homeowners can expect to pay $3 to $10 per square foot for basement waterproofing costs, plus labor costs. According to HGTV, it costs between $500 and $1,000 to seal a basement.
Why is my basement drain backing up when it rains?
If the water is coming up through floor drains or sink drains in the basement, then the problem is often water backing up from the municipal sanitary sewer system. During heavy rains, combined sewer systems can become overwhelmed with water. This can cause sewer water to back up in the system and sometimes into homes.
How do you tell if a basement has flooded?
Top 4 Warning Signs of Basement Flooding Water Stains. Water stains on basement floors or walls means your basement has already seen some flooding, and is likely to see it again at times of rainfall. Calcification Build-Up. Foundation Cracks. Standing Water in Basement.
Do all basements leak?
The most common cause of basement water in homes is from leaking wall cracks. These cracks will not automatically leak but often do. Surface repairs with rigid products such as hydraulic cement or epoxy will often fail again within a couple of years.
How do I stop hydrostatic water in my basement?
How to Reduce Hydrostatic Pressure Against a Foundation Utilize Proper Grading. A surefire way to subject a basement wall to substantial amounts of hydrostatic pressure is to have the adjacent yard sloping down toward the home’s foundation. Install Downspout Extensions. Implement a Basement Waterproofing System.
Should you seal basement concrete?
Whether you plan on finishing your basement space or keeping it in its original state, it is important to apply a waterproof sealant to the concrete floor in order to lock out moisture. An epoxy-coated basement floor is one of the best ways to maintain and preserve your space.
How do I stop my basement from flooding in heavy rain?
Tips To Prevent Basement Floods: Consult a professional for repairs and waterproofing. Inspect your lateral sewer lines for root intrusion and blockages. Snake your piping annually. Check basement walls for any cracks or weak spots. Seal basement window wells, vents, and exterior openings.
Can you put Drano down a basement drain?
Can you put Drano in a basement floor drain? Yes, Drano is safe to put down most drains. If one bottle does not clear the sewage backup you will need to use a plumber’s snake.
Can heavy rain cause plumbing issues?
Heavy, sudden rains can lead to serious plumbing with our plumbing and drain systems, especially if our properties aren’t properly equipped to handle the steady water intake. In order to preserve your home and guard against the rain, make sure you know what signs might indicate a serious plumbing problem.
What is the first thing to do when basement floods?
What Do You Do When Your Basement is Flooding? STEP 1: PUT SAFETY FIRST AND CALL YOUR ELECTRICIAN. If you do experience a basement flood, remember to put safety first. STEP 2: REMOVE IMPORTANT ITEMS TO A DRY AREA. STEP 3: CALL YOUR PLUMBER. STEP 4: CALL YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY. STEP 5: CLEAN UP, SANITIZE, AND DEODORIZE.
What does water damage in a basement look like?
Basement water problems can make drywall and carpet wet. Plumbing leaks, water intrusion from outside, or condensation are all common causes of wet drywall and carpet in the basement. Some of the obvious signs of water damage to basement drywall and carpet are yellowish-brown stains, mold stains, and dampness.
Can standing water damage foundation?
Water can have a profound effect on your home’s concrete foundation. Through hydrostatic pressure, standing water can enter the pores and cause breaks. Erosion and soil expansion or retraction can cause a loss of support to your structure.
Where is the water coming from in my basement?
Water seepage where the basement wall meets the floor is a common cause of water in the basement. Aside from a plumbing leak or local flooding, there are two major causes of water in the basement: surface water and subsurface groundwater.
Is a little water in basement OK?
Allowing water to remain present in the basement can increase the level of humidity in the entire home, causing unpleasant conditions and making HVAC systems run longer. More importantly, water in the basement can be a catalyst for the growth of mold, which can create serious health problems for the home’s residents.
Will Flex Seal stop basement leaks?
Flex Seal Liquid is thicker than paint and dries into a strong, rubberized coating. It can also help seal out air, water, and moisture and is chemical and mildew resistant – making it a great choice for your basement walls.
