If you have experienced water damage in your basement, you know how stressful it is. You know how much damage can happen to your cherished items as well as the mess that can be left behind to clean up. A watchful eye and keeping up maintenance will help you to reduce your risk of flooding. Here is a list of tips to prevent basement flooding in the first place:

Properly Landscaped Yard

The slope of your yard may contribute to basement water issues and possibly the shape of your flower bed. When the slope of your yard directs water to your house it can pool up around your foundation. Re-grade your lawn or install a French drain to direct water away from your home.

Install Window Well Covers

When attached correctly over your below-grade basement windows and foundation of the house, a window well cover a simple and great way to help waterproof your basement. In addition to keeping water out, they also help to keep pests, leaves and other lawn debris out. Window well covers can be found at your local hardware store. Note: be sure to use clear acrylic window well covers to keep your basement bright!

Maintain and Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clean

Maintaining the downspouts and gutters is a simple, inexpensive and very important part of owning a home. Be sure to keep downspouts positioned away from the foundation so water from rain, melting snow and storms can flow freely at least 3 feet away from the foundation and not pool against your home. Downspout extensions can be used to ensure that water goes the necessary distance.

Maintain Sump Pump

Sump pump failure is the number one cause of basement flooding. The sump pump is a great tool to combat water damage, mold, and flooding. Maintenance is extremely important in making sure your basement stays dry. When you know a storm is headed to your area it is vital that you make sure your sump pump is working properly. A generator is a great investment to ensure your sump pump continues to work if the electricity goes out. Homeowner’s insurance may not cover damage if your basement floods due to a broken sump pump.

Foundation Cracks

To prevent basement flooding, pest infestation, and water damage, check your foundation both inside and out on a regular basis. Fill any cracks with epoxy, apply a masonry sealer indoors and if a serious foundation problem occurs call for a professional to repair any damage.

Septic Systems and Sewers

Go into your calendar and set up an appointment for next spring to have your septic tank
cleaned or your sewer inspected. Spring is a great time to handle this due to a large amount of rainfall. This type of inspection cannot be ignored without eventually causing issues in your home. Save yourself some time, money and headache by having this added to your annual checklist.

Know Your Insurance

Check to be sure that you have additional coverage for sewer and drain backups.

By being a proactive homeowner, you will either prevent or be prepared when problems arise from fire, mold or even flooding. You will likely be able to prevent some issues from happening in the first place which will save you a lot of headaches, give you peace of mind and more enjoyment from your home.