Causes of Flooded Basements

5/5/2021 (Permalink)

If you're dealing with a flooded basement, call SERVPRO of East Greenville county TODAY! 864-292-3495

Wet basements can create problems costing thousands of dollars to repair.  Unexpected water in your basement can damage floors and walls, ruin furniture, destroy carpeting, and lead quickly to mold.

When you experience a flooded basement for the first time, it's important to determine if the water problems are going to recur or if it was a one-time event. If water in your basement is a consistent problem, it's time to start making decisions. Determining where the water is coming from is the first and most critical step in solving the problem.

What causes water to enter my basement?

Beyond observable flooding around your home and in your neighborhood, there are four common sources of water entering basements.

• Basement water might be leaking down from the foundation walls
• Water-saturated soils may be pushed into the basement by hydrostatic pressure
• Storm sewer water from the municipal storm sewer system backing up in to the home’s perimeter foundation drain
• Sanitary sewer water from a clog in municipal sewer line, your home’s sewer line, or a combination of both backing up in the sink and floor drains

Whether it's a plumbing leak, roof leak or a basement filled with water, water damage can require an expensive fix.

Here are a few home improvements to make water damage less likely:

• Seal your basement.
• Install a sump pump.
• Add or update drainage. 
• Install a water leak detection system. 
• Update your windows and doors. 
• Replace your pipes.
• Regularly check your roof for signs of damage. 
• Replace washing machine supply hoses.