Maintenance Matters^sm

Basement flooding can be a problem in some homes, and there are steps to take to minimize potential damage.  But since a flooded basement can result from a number of things, there is no single method for prevention.  The most important things are to determine:
 
1) When is the basement flooding?

• Does the basement flood every year at approximately the same time?
• Does the basement flood during random intervals?  

• If water is entering near the top of the wall in one location:
  • An improperly sloped landscape angled toward the house could be the cause.
  • Extend and re-direct the downspouts.
  • Reshape the landscaping around the foundation of the home.

Inspect the location where water is entering:

• Caulk any cracks on the interior.

• Remove soil around the foundation.
• Hire a licensed contractor to install a waterproofing membrane.
• Consider applying an internal sealant that can be painted on interior surface of basement walls:
  • This is not an option for finished basement walls.  
  • These products require constant maintenance or they will stop working. 

If the water appears to be entering the home near the foundation or through a floor drain:

• One solution is to install a “French Drainage” system around the perimeter of the home or at least in areas subject to frequent flooding.  
  • Remove the soil around the perimeter of the home.
  • Waterproof the foundation wall with a waterproofing membrane.
    
• Install a French Drain at the base of the foundation:
  • Ensure that the drain has a method for diverting the water.
  • The drain should empty into the primary storm drainage system, a retention pond or other source.
  • Backfill the area with gravel to provide adequate drainage. 
    
• Install a sump pump with a battery backup: 
  • This requires demolition of a portion of the basement floor.
  • To be effective, the sump pump needs to be hooked up to a drainage system, usually installed around the perimeter of the basement foundation, or at least in areas subject to repeated flooding.
  • Because this is installed at the perimeter of the foundation, the flooring in this area will also face demolition to install the drainage system.  
  • Sump pumps should be tested at least once a year, preferably in the early spring.
  • Test the system if a storm is approaching.
  • Make sure the sump pit does not contain any debris that will clog the sump’s inlet pipe.
  • Ensure the outlet pipe is not frozen shut.  
  • Pour water into the sump pit until the sump turns on (about 5 gallons of water).  
  • If the sump does not turn on contact a professional to diagnose the problem.