Summer is here, and though many homeowners think that chances of basement flooding are minimal, it’s still entirely possible that a heavy rainstorm can cause unexpected basement moisture. Fortunately, there are many steps that you can take as a proactive homeowner to limit these summer basement flooding risks. Here are just a few quick steps you can take to limit your risks of basement moisture this summer.
Clean out your home’s gutters.
First, it should come as no surprise that clogged gutters can cause overflow, which can then leak down toward your home’s foundation and potentially cause the need for fixing basement leaks. On the other hand, cleaning out your gutter prior to the start of summer minimizes the chance for buildup and overflow, ensuring a smooth and steady flow of water away from your home throughout the season.
Check paved walkways for cracks that could hold in water.
According to the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), floods are the number one disaster in America, averaging over $3 billion in claims per year. With that in mind, it’s definitely worthwhile to examine any paved surfaces around your home, like your driveway, concrete porch, or walkway. Ensure that there are no depressions or indents that could be trapping water. These paved areas should also be sloping away from your home. The general rule of thumb is this: if your foundation has cracks wider than one fourth of an inch wide, or if you have stair step cracks in blocks or bricks, you should take measures to fix it. If you have any doubts, it’s best to call a home waterproofing professional who can work on repairing foundation problems.
Consider setting up dehumidifiers around your basement.
Finally, everyone knows that summer is, by far, the most humid season of the year. That being said, it can be nearly impossible to maintain a completely dry basement. But one small investment that can help keep water out is a dehumidifier. They can be installed to drain consistently, which means you won’t have to empty the bucket every day. Depending on the size of your basement, you may need more than one dehumidifier, but they’re definitely worth considering as an added precaution.
When all is said and done, more than 98% of all home with basements will experience some type of water damage. Knowing the best processes for fixing basement leaks can help keep water out during the most humid months of the year. For more information about foundation repairs or fixing basement leaks, contact The Real Seal LLC.
