A flooded basement is a nasty incident. Not only can it ruin your belongings, but it can threaten the integrity of your home and the health of your family if the water isn’t cleaned up properly by professional wet basement repair company like the Crack Doctor. To prevent yourself from running into trouble in the first place, follow these steps for reducing your chances of a flooded basement:
Keep Gutters & Downspouts Clean
When your gutters and downspouts are clogged with leaves and other debris, they can’t do their job of directing rain water away from your foundation. Every season, conduct an inspection to make sure they are clean and in good shape. If they are clogged, clean then. Broken, repair or replace them. If they don’t direct far enough from the foundation, install extensions and troughs.
Repair Foundation Cracks
Water can seep into your basement through foundation cracks thinner than a strand of hair. Don’t take a risk with DIY foundation repair – call a professional wet basement repair company to diagnose and solve the problem properly from the outset.
Inspect Your Sump Pump
Having a sump pump is great, but it’s no use if it’s broken or the power goes out and you don’t have a backup power supply. Make sure it is clean, in good working order, and there is a backup power source.
Inspect Sewers & Septics
If your sewer system is clogged or your septic system is overtaxed, it’s a recipe for disaster. Make sure whatever system you have is in good working order before a heavy rainstorm puts your basement at risk.
Install Window Well Covers
Protect below-grade basement windows from water, leaves, and pests with window well covers. They are available in clear acrylic so you don’t lose any light, but you’re protected from water. Hire the pros to anchor the covers to your foundation.
Invest in a Generator
To ensure your sump pump works properly during a storm, you may want to consider investing in a generator as a backup power source.
Review Insurance Coverage
Standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not typically offer coverage for flooding or sewer backups. Speak with your insurance broker or agent to determine if an addition to your policy like flood insurance or extended water damage coverage is right for you.
For more information about how to reduce your chances of experiencing a flooded basement, contact a wet basement repair company like the Crack Doctor.
