How to prevent basement flooding

Basement flooding isn’t just a major inconvenience. It can cause extensive damage to your home and create a serious health and safety hazard. Here are some preventive measures you can take in and around your home to protect your basement from flooding.

Eavestroughs

Eavestroughs collect rainwater and direct it away from your home. Remove leaves and other debris on a regular basis to prevent blockages and overflow. Make sure the downspouts connected to your eavestroughs drain at least two metres away from the foundation. Add an extension if necessary. 

Drains

A clogged drain can quickly lead to a backed-up toilet or overflowing sink. To prevent clogs, only human waste and toilet paper should be flushed down a toilet. Also, avoid rinsing hair, food waste and other debris down any drain. Additionally, it’s a good idea to pour water down the floor drain in your basement to test for blockages on a regular basis. 

Pipes

Hire a professional plumber to inspect and service the key components of your household plumbing system, including the backwater valve (it prevents sewage from flowing into your home when the sewer lines are overwhelmed by heavy rainfall). You should also make sure the pipes in your crawl space are properly insulated to prevent pipes from freezing and potentially bursting. 

Foundation

A leaky foundation is one of the most common sources of basement flooding. Inspect the exterior of your foundation as well as the basement floors and walls for cracks on a regular basis. Fill the cracks with epoxy, caulking or hydraulic cement to prevent water seepage and damage. 

Yard

Proper land grading can greatly reduce the risk of basement flooding. The ground on your property should slope away from your home to prevent water from pooling around the foundation. In addition, incorporating native plants and mulch into your gardens will help prevent soil erosion and improve drainage.

Basement windows

Add caulking or replace the weatherstrip around your basement windows if it’s worn or you notice any seepage. If your basement windows are below ground level, make sure the window wells have a proper drainage system and consider installing a cover to minimize water accumulation.

Sump pump

Sump pumps are designed to protect basements from water damage caused by seepage, storm surges and seasonal thawing. Make sure your sump pump is properly sized for your home. You should also install a battery backup pump to ensure your basement remains protected during a power outage.

Emergency plumbing services in Vancouver

Hillcrest Plumbing & Heating Ltd. offers emergency plumbing and repair services in North Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond and surrounding communities. To schedule a service call, or speak with a registered plumber, contact us today.