Many homeowners become agitated whenever it clouds to rain and at the sight of snow. Rain and snow affect the basement, especially if the basement is not waterproofed. By the time snow begins to melt, the level of water in the basement will start to rise as well as when it rains heavily. Prevention is always better than a cure, so it would be advisable to secure the services of a business snow removal company in advance.
Here are the 5 causes of basement flooding:
- Clogged Downspouts
Downspouts are installed at the tip of roof gutters to collect water and transfer it to the drainage. But when the downspouts have become clogged with bird nests, dirt, debris, etc., there will not be a free passage for water. Downspouts will overflow at the top, and water will drop directly to the basement, and this will undoubtedly cause basement flooding.
- Missing Extensions
In some cases, extensions may be attached to downspouts to transfer rainwater farther away from the base of the house. If the extensions are missing, there will be a direct flow of rainwater into the basement and cause flooding, especially if the basement waterproofing is in a poor state.
- Cracked Walls and Foundation
When the walls of the basement and the foundation have become cracked due to contraction and expansion caused by the weather, the basement waterproofing will become compromised, and there will be flooding. That is why it is crucial to examine the foundation and walls for cracks and apply sealant on cracks to prevent flooding.
- Failed Foundation Drainage System
As part of the basement waterproofing, drainage is usually constructed along the foundation to channel water away from the foundation to the external drainage system. If the foundation drainage system has become damaged and in a poor state, it would be challenging to prevent basement flooding. Meanwhile, a proper basement waterproofing maintenance includes examining the foundation drainage system and repairing its damaged parts to prevent flooding.
- Sewer Backup
When there is a clog in the sewer line, the chances are that basement flooding will happen soon. As long as wastewater fails to flow out to the main sewer lines, a sewer backup will take place and cause flooding in the basement. The sewer line and other pipes in the house should be well-maintained to prevent possible failures that will cause the sewage to back up. This will help to avoid any nasty experience.