As a homeowner, you want to do everything possible to keep your home safe. When you live in a flood-prone area, or you have pipes that run through your basement, you already know the risks of basement flooding.
Have you already learned how to prevent basement flooding?
Basic flood prevention isn’t hard once you know how it’s done. Keep reading for 5 tips on how to prevent flooding in your basement.
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Landscape The Right Way
Did you know that the way you landscape your yard can be a large factor in preventing floods?
You want your yard to have proper drainage, especially if you live in an area that experiences a lot of rain or you have many plants that require frequent watering.
When you look at your home in relation to your yard, does it dip below the yard or rise above it? Even a small dip in the land can cause water to pool closer to your home. When your home rises above the yard, water goes the other way.
There are a few ways that you can help. Consider bringing the edges of your lawn higher against the walls of your home. You can also use retaining walls, like those created by Cherry Oak Landscaping, to help keep away excess water.
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Reinforce Your Windows
Does your basement have windows to the outside? If they aren’t reinforced or sealed the right way, you risk moisture getting in every time it rains.
If these windows never open, consider sealing them completely. If they do, use high-quality caulk to seal the edges. Check on your seal every so often to make sure that it’s still secure.
This also saves you money on your energy bills.
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Inspect Pipes Often
If you’re worried about your pipes leaking into your basement and causing a flood, make sure that you’re keeping an eye on them and getting them maintained when you’re concerned.
You may not expect your pipes to burst, but it isn’t as uncommon as you’d think. Pipes often burst when there’s a sudden cold snap, or when there’s some kind of blockage.
Checking and maintaining your pipes will help you avoid this problem and the messy cleanup that comes alongside it.
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Check for Foundation and Wall Cracks
One of the main culprits of flooding that’s hard to identify is a bad foundation. When your foundation is cracked and damaged, water can seep in.
Checking for cracks is easy. If you have things against your walls (either on the outside or inside), move them aside and look at them in good light. When in doubt, run your fingers along the wall as well.
When you find cracks, either hire a professional to come to help you or try to seal them on your own with caulk.
How to Prevent Basement Flooding The Easy Way
Once you know how to prevent basement flooding you’re one step closer to preventing expensive water damage. When you take the proper steps, you can keep your basement clean and dry.
Don’t end up with a flooding disaster. Protect your basement today.
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