Protect Your Basement After the Snow Is Gone
While the snow may be gone, that doesn’t mean your home, especially your basement, is no longer at risk. In many instances, homeowners first notice water issues after the spring thaw has passed, which is why it’s important to stay proactive.
In today’s blog, we want to offer some practical steps you can take to keep water out of your basement and protect your home, saving you from costly repairs down the line.
Signs Your Basement Might be at Risk
While you might not have active flooding in your basement, that doesn’t always mean it is dry or problem free. Often, there are warning signs that appear before disaster strikes.
Watch for the following:
Musty or damp air
Water stains or marks along walls
Peeling paint or bubbling drywall
Warped flooring or damp carpet
Cracks in the foundation
Blocked drainage systems
While everything might look fine, it’s a good idea to inspect areas of your home to save you trouble down the road.
Check right now:
Sump pump: Make sure it’s not overworked, or failing after heavy use.
Look at your foundation: Pay attention to new cracks or changes in existing ones.
Inspect your yard: Watch for soggy areas or pooling water near your home.
Review your water bill: An unexpected increase could mean a hidden leak.
Preventative Measures
Keep these flood prevention tips in mind:
Eavestroughs and downspouts
Water flows from your eavestroughs into the downspouts. If the downspouts are running water right next to your foundation, it can lead straight to the weeping tile, potentially overwhelming your home’s drainage system.
Call a professional
Having a qualified professional come in and inspect your sump pump, plumbing, valves, etc. can give you peace of mind. Catching minor issues before they become major ones will save you the headache of dealing with the damage of flooding.
Call a professional if you notice:
Repeated dampness or water seeping in
A sump pump that runs constantly (or not at all)
Musty smell
Visible foundation cracks getting worse
Drainage issues around your property
Action Plumbing and Heating can help address these issues, and ensure your home is ready for spring.
Sump pump
A sump pit drainage system includes a sump pit, a sump pump and a discharge pipe.
Additionally, a battery-powered backup sump pump is a smart investment. Most models fit alongside your main sump pump and have an alarm to alert you if the primary pump fails, prompting timely repairs. Water-powered backup pumps use flowing water to operate.
Home insurance
Homeowners should ensure they have appropriate insurance coverage for basement flooding. Regularly consult your insurance agent to confirm you have the right protection and explore new extensions.
As the weather warms up, it's essential to take some time to inspect your basement for any hidden issues that may have gone unnoticed during the winter months. By conducting a thorough inspection now, you can deal with problems before an emergency arises. This not only protects your home but also helps you avoid an unexpected repair bill!
If you have questions or concerns regarding basement flooding, please contact the Action team today.