Top Reasons Your Basement Floods and How to Stop It
Being underground puts the basement in any property at a higher risk of flooding, and this should be taken seriously because basement flooding doesn’t just damage your belongings and cause an inconvenience. It can quickly lead to mould growth and structural damage, turning your property into a serious health and safety hazard. However, it can be avoided if you understand the causes. This blog explores some common reasons for basement floods and effective strategies for prevention.
Poor Landscape Grading
One of the leading causes of basement flooding is the landscape surrounding the property. If this is sloped towards the building’s foundation, then water from rain or melting ice is naturally going to run towards it and pool around the base. It can then start to seep through cracks in the building’s foundations and into the basement. Poor grading can be fixed by adding soil around the property’s perimeter that slopes away from the foundation.
Clogged or Broken Gutters
Gutters and downpipes exist to prevent water from running off the roof and pooling around a building’s base. If they are broken or clogged with leaves, dirt, and other debris, they will not be able to divert the water properly. Regular maintenance is the key to managing this cause of basement flooding. Be sure to clean your gutters and pipes at least twice a year, and repair any damage immediately.
Foundation Cracks and Structural Issues
Water often seeps into basements through cracks in the foundation, so it is important to regularly inspect the basement walls and floors for these. Any that you do find should be professionally evaluated. Even hairline cracks should not be ignored, as they can easily widen over time due to pressure and temperature changes. Some cracks might need serious structural repairs, but most can be sealed by epoxy or polyurethane injection. Wall membrane can be applied for added protection.
Poorly Sealed Basement Windows
Sealant can degrade over time, and water pooling around basement windows can cause wet rot in wooden frames, compromising their structural integrity. These issues could eventually lead to water entering the basement. You can prevent this by regularly inspecting the caulking and seals, replacing them when needed, as well as making sure there is adequate drainage around the window to prevent pooling. You could also buy a window well cover that keeps out rain while still letting light inside.
High Water Table
In areas where soil close to the surface is highly saturated, the groundwater can exert a lot of pressure against the exterior walls of your basement, pushing water into the cracks and pores. This water can end up passing through the wall, causing damp and flooding. Tanking is a method of waterproofing for basements that can help protect against this, as can a drainage system or the use of a sump pump.
Basement floods can occur for many reasons, but most can be easily prevented by regularly inspecting your property and ensuring that it is well-maintained. For a tailored approach to flood prevention based on your property’s needs, speak to Damp Proofing Ltd today by calling 020 7593 8030.