In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle. But if you want your home to stay a sanctuary from the chaos, there are a few things you can do to help make that happen.
For instance, did you know that an average of 27 inches of water can seep into a basement each year? That’s just the surface moisture. It doesn’t include potential damage from flooding or external water problems. Water pools are one common cause of this type of inflow, but any number of issues could lead to your basement flooding, such as a faulty sump pump, ice dams in the winter, or heavy rainfall.
That’s why it’s essential to take certain precautions and implement an effective routine for monitoring your home’s foundation. With that in mind, here is an essential checklist of things you can do to prevent damage in your basement.
Tips on how to prevent damages in your basement
Check the Foundation
All kinds of issues could affect your foundation, from unstable soil to foundation cracks to settling issues. These may be hard to see by themselves, but they’re easy to spot if you look for signs of water damage. You can usually tell there is a problem if there are cracks in the walls, floor, or ceiling. If you notice these signs, call a foundation repair Pittsburgh to get to work on determining what’s causing them.
Test Your Sump Pump
Sump pumps are designed to keep the basement dry by expelling water that seeps through your foundation and collecting rainwater runoff. To ensure your pump is doing its job, test it regularly by filling a bucket with water and pouring it into the sump pit. The pump should turn on and evacuate the water quickly. You may need to replace the pump or have it serviced if it doesn’t. During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to test your pump at least once a week.
To keep your sump pump maintained and in good shape and prevent it from malfunctioning, don’t use it as garbage disposal. Throw debris such as twigs and leaves into the trash. Also, keep your sump pit free of dirt and other buildups that can clog the pump mechanism.
Inspect the Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters and downspouts are a leading cause of basement water problems. Make sure to keep them clear of leaves, twigs, and other debris so that the water can flow freely. Overflowing gutters can send water cascading down the side of your house and right into your basement. A foundation repair Pittsburgh expert can clean out the gutters for you, but you should also inspect them regularly during heavy rain.
An accumulation of a lot of water in a short period is one of the most common reasons a house gets flooded. Even if your gutters are clear and your sump pump is working correctly, it only takes one rainfall to cause a problem if the ground around your home is already saturated. Basement flooding during wet periods can be prevented by redirecting water runoff away from your home with an underground drainage system. That’s why it’s essential to keep an eye on the weather forecast and take action if rain is in the forecast.
Install a Moisture Barrier
A moisture barrier is designed to limit the amount of water that seeps into your basement. It’s made up of materials like plastic sheeting, cement board, or even spray foam insulation, and it acts as a wall between your home’s foundation and the outside world. By keeping the water out, you can help prevent damage to your foundation and basement. A wet basement can ruin your belongings, lead to mold and mildew growth, and even cause structural problems with your home. So it’s definitely worth the investment to install a moisture barrier.
Create a Drainage Plan
If water is already getting into your basement, you need to create a drainage plan to get it out. This may involve installing a sump pump and/or a drainage system that divert the water away from your home. You should also make sure that the ground around your house slopes away from the foundation so that the water can drain properly.
A flooded basement isn’t just a nuisance so basement waterproofing Pittsburgh is a must. It can lead to serious structural damage and even risk health if the water becomes contaminated.
Seal the Cracks
Foundation cracks are a common cause of basement water problems. Even a small crack can let in enough water to cause extensive damage. To prevent water from seeping through the cracks, you need to seal them with concrete or silicone caulk. Make sure to use a waterproof caulk for the best results. Regularly, examine basement walls and floors for fractures and leaks. On the other hand, cracks might indicate foundation repair work. Inspect and repair foundation cracks at least once a year.
Final Thoughts
Basement water problems can be a significant headache, but they can be prevented with a little bit of maintenance. Follow these tips, and you’ll be able to have a dry basement and be damage-free. Your basement walls are the first line of defense against water, and if they’re crumbly and weak, your house will absorb the brunt of any erosion, and any real damage becomes a lot more expensive to fix. A little prevention goes a long way when it comes to your home’s foundation and basement.
If you experience any foundation repair Pittsburgh problems, like water damage, make sure to call a waterproofing Pittsburgh professional. They will help you diagnose and fix the problem quickly and efficiently.