What To Do If Your Basement Floods: Tips & FAQs

Have you gone to your basement to unexpectedly find standing water? Paul Davis can help! Our highly skilled team of water mitigation specialists and restoration professionals can help with 24/7 emergency basement flooding services. In the meantime, check out our comprehensive guide to preventing and mitigating future basement floods.

Unfortunately, you do not need heavy downpours for your home’s basement to flood. In fact, regular spring showers can cause basements to flood.

The ever-changing seasons can also contribute to unwanted plumbing problems in your home. Melting ice and snow can cause extra water to puddle in your gutters as a result of constant temperature fluctuations. Excess water from overland flooding can drip from your downspouts and enter your home from cracks in your foundation or mortar joints. Call us at (440)-834-1155 for 24/7 emergency flooding services.

What to Know

Most common causes of basement flooding

The common causes for basement leaks come from the pressure created by the water in the soil surrounding your foundation. There are three different types of pressure that form to cause flooding issues including:

  • Persistent rain causes soil to saturate, resulting in high water pressure that can cause a burst pipe
  • Loose soil around your foundation absorbs water
  • Rainwater from a window seeping into your basement

Signs of Basement Flooding

Standing water is a clear sign of a flooded basement. Other signs to look for are water stains on the floor or walls, foundation cracks, and calcification build-up. These signs can be caught before standing water appears which can be helpful to take care of the flooding as soon as possible.

How To Prevent Future Flooding

While many parts of the country consistently see extreme water and rain each year, it seems that the trend of unexpected rain and flooding in less common areas is continuing. People that live in areas prone to hurricanes or flooding will tell you firsthand that keeping a basement dry is no easy task. Regardless of where you live, there are some steps you can take to keep your basement as dry as possible. Below are a few ways to avoid flooded basements.

  • Install An Electric Sump Pump And Battery Operated Backup Sump Pump
  • Keep Sewage Away With The Installation Of A Backwater Valve
  • Take A Look At Your Landscaping For Excess Water
  • Check For Restrictions In Downspouts And Other Drainage Systems Before Rain
  • Check For Water Heater Leaks
  • Install Gutter Protection Or Regularly Clean Your Gutters
  • Extend Your Existing Downspout Systems To Direct Water Flow Away From The Home
  • Ensure Cracks And Crevices In Your Basement Walls/Floors Are Caulked And Sealed
  • Ensure Proper Air Circulation To Avoid Excess Moisture

What To Do When Your Basement Floods

Follow these important steps when excessive basement flooding occurs in your home:

Contact City Water Department

Local municipalities are able to inform you of the mainline sewer system conditions of your home. Research your pipeline and sanitation drain structure for a general understanding of any possible issues. Make sure the power is turned off to avoid any electrical shocks, and identify any source of water that may have caused the flooding.

Be Ready to Clean Flooded Area

Flooded basement cleanup can be a tricky task. Make sure to wear eye protection, gloves, and boots before heading to the basement to mop up a flood. Watch your steps carefully so you don’t spread sewage contaminants to other parts of your home. Bubbling sewer backup water can contain dangerous contaminants and harmful bacteria. Cover any exposed areas of skin, and keep children or pets clear of flooding areas before cleaning.

If the water is clean, it is okay to unblock a drain that is keeping any water from draining. If water is coming from a broken pipe, call a plumber immediately.

Mop and Dry Water

Thoroughly clean and dry the flooded basement. A wet vacuum is a great tool that can help remove floodwater. Another tool is a pool pump if you already have one for an inground pool. Once the majority of the water has been cleared and mopped, mix 8 tablespoons of liquid chlorine bleach with one gallon of water. Then disinfect and dry all surfaces that may have come in contact with the floodwater.

Throw Away Contaminated Items

Take photographs of damaged items for insurance claims purposes. Keeping these items is not worth the risk, since many of them might be wet, contaminated, or toxic.

Remove Damaged Drywall

Remove all flooded drywall within a 24-hour period. Your drywall is at risk of growing mold, so be sure to remove it to prevent water damage.

Install a Waterproofing System

Install an interior drainage system to keep water away from your basement. An interior floor drain connects to a sump pump, draining along the foundation joint where your basement floor meets. Sump pumps are at the lowest part of the basement and help drain the area from joints, where most water leakage occurs. Another option is what is called weeping tile which is a porous pipe that is used for underground water collection or discharge.

Effects of basement flooding

There are safety risks that are associated with flooding and basement flooding repair. If you have any doubts about dealing with basement flooding, contact the Cleveland Department of Public Health.

Most damaged items are at risk to attract mold and mildew if they’re not able to dry out and be cleaned. Restoration specialists can help salvage items.

If any electrical wiring has been affected, this could cause an electric shock or bring about a gas leak. Leave immediately if there is a gas odor present and call the Fire Department and your gas company.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you fix a basement that floods?

  • You can fix basement flooding with the help of restoration and remediation specialists. With their help, you may be able to seal the source of a leak with polyurethane caulk or hydraulic cement, but full restoration of a flooded basement usually requires professional expertise.

What causes floods in basements?

  • There can be multiple causes of flooding in basements. Extreme weather conditions like heavy rain or water systems in the house failing can cause a large flooded area. Sewer backups, damaged pipes, or broken water heaters are all ways that your home’s foundation can be damaged.

Contact Paul Davis for Emergency Flooding Needs

Our team of qualified experts can access and fix any repairs needed. Our emergency service professionals can inform you about preventative sewer drain measures to keep any heavy rain away from your home.

Your home piping relies on how well you maintain your plumbing system and sewers. It’s advantageous to work with a trusted team that can help you take preventative measures for any emergency help you may need.

Your Cleveland area home may need a system for waterproofing during emergencies. If you can gather water before it leaks into your basement, you’ll be prepared for any basement flood. Call us at (440)-834-1155 for 24/7 emergency flooding services. Our team is there for immediate assistance with flooded basements in Cleveland. With our help, you can keep your home safe from long-lasting flooding issues.

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