Springtime brings warmer weather, longer days, and the promise of new beginnings. But it can also bring flooding to your home, especially in the basement. As snow melts and rain falls, the ground can become oversaturated and lead to water seeping into your basement. However, with a few preventative measures, you can protect your basement from spring thaw and flooding. In this blog, we'll discuss some steps you can take to keep your basement dry and damage-free.
Clear the snow and ice around your home
The first step in protecting your basement from spring thaw and flooding is to ensure that the snow and ice around your home are cleared. This will help prevent excess water from accumulating around your foundation and seeping into your basement. Shovel snow away from your home and make sure that any nearby drainage systems are clear and free-flowing.
Clean your gutters and downspouts
The first step to protecting your basement from flooding is to ensure that your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris. When gutters and downspouts are clogged, water can overflow and pool around the foundation of your home, leading to water damage in your basement. By clearing out any debris, you can ensure that water is directed away from your home and into the proper drainage system.
Check your Sump Pump or Install a Sump Pump in the basement
A sump pump is a device that is installed in the basement of a home to pump excess water out of the area. If you have a sump pump, it's important to ensure that it's working properly before spring thaw and flooding occur. Test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the sump pit. The pump should turn on automatically and pump the water out of the pit.
Inspect your foundation
Inspecting your foundation is an important step in protecting your basement from spring thaw and flooding. Look for any cracks or damage in your foundation and repair them as soon as possible. Water can seep into your basement through even the smallest cracks, so it's important to address any issues before they become a major problem. It is also a good idea to inspect your foundation regularly for any signs of damage.
Ensure proper grading around your home
Proper grading around your home can also help prevent spring thaw and flooding from causing damage to your basement. Make sure that the ground around your foundation slopes away from your home, allowing excess water to drain away from your foundation. If necessary, regrade the soil around your home to ensure proper drainage.
Check your window wells
Window wells are designed to allow natural light into your basement. However, they can also be a source of water damage. If your window wells are not properly sealed, water can seep into your basement. Make sure that your window wells are free of debris and that the covers are secure.
Consult the Basement Foundation Professionals
Protecting your basement from spring thaw and flooding requires a combination of preventive measures and proactive maintenance. By taking steps to clear snow and ice, checking your sump pump, inspecting your foundation, installing a backwater valve, and ensuring proper grading around your home, you can help prevent excess water from seeping into your basement and causing damage. If you're unsure about how to protect your basement from spring thaw and flooding, consider consulting with a Basement Waterproofing professional who can help you develop a plan that's tailored to your specific needs. Don't wait until it's too late – take action now to protect your home from water damage.
Contact us today to schedule a free estimate. If you live in Des Moines or the surrounding area, contact BAM Basements and Masons for a free estimate. One of our experienced sales team advisors will evaluate your home. Once your sales team advisor has determined the causes and issues, they will review their findings and recommended options with you. As a team, you will decide on the ideal whole-home solution that is right for you to keep your home strong and healthy for years to come.
BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines is your premier foundation repair company serving the Des Moines, Iowa area. If you’re located in Des Moines, Ankeny, Bondurant, Altoona, Pleasant hill, Ames, Adel, Waukee, Indianola, Grimes, Urbandale, Johnston, West Des Moines, or the surrounding areas, we’re the place to call. We can help you avoid costly and stressful foundation repair mistakes, by giving you a customized solution that’s going to work for you and your home long term. BAM Basements and Masons of Des Moines is a professional and locally owned and operated state-registered contractor. We offer affordable honest upfront pricing, no hidden costs, offer free estimates and limited lifetime warranties. We use new methods and materials on all jobs. We would love to help!