What Can Cause a Flooded Basement?

6/2/2020 (Permalink)

A basement flood can be devastating for a homeowner

Four Common Reasons For Flooded Basement

A basement flood can be devastating for a homeowner. Unwanted water can range in severity from a small trickle to floodwater that covers electrical outlets. By knowing some common reasons that basements flood, you may be able to take preventative measures and lessen the chance it will happen to you. Here are four common reasons for flooded basements and what you can do about them:

1. Blocked Gutters and Eavestroughs
If leaves or other debris get into your gutter system, it can change the water flow around your house or block the manifold that connects your home to the public sewer system. Have these areas checked and cleaned regularly, especially in the fall after the leaves have fallen.

2. Location of Your Home
If your home sits at the bottom of a slope, you may have a problem with water flow. As the water gathers around your home, it can seep in and cause water damage. Often, time will take care of this problem with erosion. To speed up the process, you could install some landscaping to guide the water away from your foundation.

3. Poor Construction
If flooring and wall tiles were not sealed properly, you may experience a basement flood every time there is a heavy storm. You can check these seals and have them fixed if you find a leak.

4. Drainage System
The downspouts around your home should direct the water away from the foundation. If your downspouts are within 6 feet of your basement wall or do not direct it in the opposite direction, it can cause a flooded basement. You may need to add additional piping or create a path for the water.
If you have experienced a basement flood in North Des Plaines, IL, it is safest to stay out of the water and call a professional for help. By enlisting the help of an expert water remediation company, you can have your home back to normal as quickly as possible.