Spring has finally arrived, along with plenty of long-awaited sunshine. While most homeowners look forward to warmer weather, melting snow and heavy rainfall can lead to a flooded basement, which may cause widespread damage to your home.

Causes of Basement Flooding

There are a number of reasons basements can flood, but heavy rainfall in spring can be especially troublesome. Improperly installed gutters can cause problems when rainfall isn’t directed away from your home. Landscaped areas are another important issue, as poor drainage or improper sloping can lead water into your basement. Overflowing streams, creeks and other nearby waterways can cause drains to back up, which can be another potential disaster.

What to Do If Your Basement Floods

Discovering a flooded basement is never a pleasant surprise, but there are several steps to take that help minimize damage and begin the cleanup process.

• Safety first: Turn off all sources of power to the basement by switching off the main breaker. Entering a flooded basement while power is still turned on could result in shock, electrocution and even death.
• Dry the basement: Use a pump to remove any water that has built up in the basement. It is essential to remove any water before beginning cleanup – and before turning power back on to the home.
• Remove wet items: Move wet carpeting, furniture and other items out of the basement and assess what can be salvaged. Moisture can be a hosting ground for mold and other potential health hazards, so be sure to discard any items that cannot be fully dried and cleaned.
• Clean and disinfect: Use an antibacterial solution to inhibit mold growth on walls, floors and any salvaged items.

How to Avoid Basement Flooding

The key to protecting your home is to avoid flooding in the first place. Not all flooding issues can be prevented, but there are a few measures you can take to stay free from spring flooding.

Gutters: Check the gutters to be sure they are installed correctly and are free of leaves, dirt, or other debris that might have built up over the winter months. Blocked gutters can cause big headaches down the road.

Landscaping: Take a hard look at landscaped areas, especially those near the foundation. Make sure rain water in landscaped areas is directed away from the home, and that landscaped beds are sloped away to keep moisture out.

Drain systems: Examine indoor drainage systems including drain tile and sump pumps.

The Hydraway Drainage System

If flooding or wet basements are a problem every year, a Hydraway Drainage System from the specialists at Intech Anchoring could be the answer. By capturing water well before it seeps into your basement, the Hydraway Drainage System protects property and the investment in your home. This system can handle as much as 70% more water than other methods and has a proven history of success.

Intech Anchoring has 20 years of experience in solving spring flooding problems. Learn more about the Hydraway Drainage System and other solutions to protect your home by calling us today at 800-223-7015.