Basement leak are nothing new. Structural cracks, poor lot grading and drainage, melting snow and ice, burst pipes, sewer backups, and even over-full gutters and downspouts can be quick to show you trouble travels downhill. How should you handle these events and prevent unnecessary destruction? Let’s take a closer look…
How to Stop Water from Leaking Into Your Basement
- Put a Stopper in It
Filling cracks in the structure and gaps around windows with an epoxy sealer outside, and a masonry sealer indoors, finishing the repaired area with the appropriate water proofing paint. If damage looks serious, schedule a professional repair assessment. - Go with the Flow
If your basement leaks when it rains, the first thing you need to do is clear your gutters and downspouts, and check to see if they’re draining in the optimal direction and at least six and a half feet away from your basement to prevent leaks and flooding. If problems persist, professional landscaping or waterproofing help may be necessary to add a crown or sloping trench to address grading issues. - Think Thirsty
Water thirsty plants, shrubs, and flowers, as well as porous pavers and concrete options improve absorption and prevent buildup and runoff. Avoid large trees, however, as roots could penetrate the basement structure and create additional leakage issues. - Bail Out
Located in the lowest part of your basement, installing a sump pump can help prevent your basement from turning into an indoor swimming pool in the event of a major leak. Regularly checked and cleaned to ensure flow, and can quickly and efficiently redirect water outdoors, preventing damage. - Fight FOG
Fat, oil and grease can cause drain blockages in your home’s plumbing system that could result in water backups to your basement. Wipe or scrape as much of these substances into the trash as possible. The same goes for flushing the wrong objects down toilet drains. The only thing septic and sewer line safe? Toilet paper and human waste. - Shovel Smart
When shoveling snow, be sure to dispose of it away from your home, in a means best suited for drainage. Snow and ice melting from winter thaw are among the worst threats for basement water damage and destruction.
How Much Does it Cost to Waterproof Your Basement?
Basement waterproofing varies widely in cost, and is largely dependent repair issues. Those with minor repairs could spend as little as $750. However those with in need of more comprehensive repairs like addressing foundational cracks and adding drainage and gutters could spend in excess of $9,000. Left unaddressed, however, these costs could pile up to far more. Excess basement moisture can quickly lead to mold and moisture damage in other areas of your home that could make you and your family sick.
Trouble trickling in your direction? The water and mold remediation professionals at Rainbow Restoration® are standing by to bail you out. Don’t wait. Contact us today.