A flooded basement can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. Unfortunately, this is a common occurrence. One of the reasons why basements are such popular targets for flooding is because of their location. Water seeks its own level and any structure that is built at ground level or below is like a magnet for flowing water. Basements are the lowest lying location in any home, so naturally they are a favourite target. Older structures are even more susceptible because of the gradual breakdown of interior and exterior waterproofing materials over the years.
What Causes Flooded Basements?
Flooding can be caused by a torrential downpour or a burst pipe outside the home or it could be a result of a slow leak in pipes and faucets inside the home.
In the event of a burst pipe or a flash flood, the increased hydrostatic pressure forces water into the home through cracks in the flooring and the foundation wall or through openings caused by the expansion and contraction of water-soaked wall joints.
If a slow leak is causing the problem, it will saturate the walls before it starts dripping into the basement. If left unchecked, it will eventually result in a flooded basement.
Problems With Water In The Basement
Cleaning up a wet basement is not as simple as mopping up the excess water. Mopping up the water you can see does not tackle the problem at its source. It only removes all visible traces of water but if water has already started seeping into the room, there’s definitely more where that came from.
Take a look at some of the problems that can be caused by water in the basement:
Water can seep into the wood components of your home’s structure and contribute to wood rotting, which can affect the structural integrity of your home.
Continuous water on the floor can warp wooden floor boards.
Persistent dampness is a prime breeding ground for mold, which is the primary causative factor for respiratory problems such as asthma and other ailments associated with mold.
Recurring flooding can also adversely affect the value of your home because of the potential damage that may have occurred and also because of the musty smell that emanates from dampness.
What You Can Do To Prevent Water In The Basement
While it may not always be possible to prevent water from seeping into the home, there are several things you can do to minimize the possible damage. The most important step is to be proactive in checking for problems regularly and getting all potential weak spots repaired immediately no matter how small or harmless they may appear.
Things for look for are:
Pipes or faucets that are leaking
Cracks in the wall or flooring
Window seals that are broken or do not seal tightly
Small cracks may not look like they could do any real damage but what you can see is only the tip of the iceberg. There is no way to know the full extent of the problem. Also, small cracks can become big surprisingly quickly. When it comes to wet basement repair, it will cost you far less to tackle the problem when it is still in the minor stage rather than after major damage has been done.
Check that all drains inside or just outside the basement are unclogged and free of any obstructions.
Make sure that all gutters and downspouts are unclogged and allow water to flow freely.
Check that the landscaping surrounding your home slopes away from your home at a distance of at least 10 feet or more. Landscaping that slopes towards your home will flood the basement within minutes in case of a torrential downpour.
Professional Wet Basement Repair Is Advisable
If after all precautions are put in place water still manages to invade your basement, your best solution is to call in a wet basement repair professional. Experienced professionals know exactly where to look for the source of the problem. They also have the right tools that allow them to carry out thorough repairs that will cut down on the potential for future damage.
A flooded basement could be an indication that more serious issues are lurking, which could cost thousands in home repairs and loss of personal effects if not attended to immediately. Don’t let that happen to you. Call Rapidcan at 416-333-6336 today for immediate and professional wet basement repair services. We’ve had years of experience with repairing basements that are cracked, leaking or flooded.
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