Your basement is made up of valuable square footage; don’t let water prevent you from using it to its fullest potential. If you’re battling moisture in your basement, don’t worry. Here are our tips for fixing your wet basement and keeping it dry.
Put Safety First
Small amounts of water in your basement may not pose a threat to your safety, but major flooding can introduce a myriad of hazards you’ll want to be aware of and avoid. Here are a few safety concerns to consider before you begin addressing the water in your basement.
Electrical Shock
If at all possible, turn off your circuit breakers for your basement’s power. This will protect you from being shocked while fixing your basement’s water issue. If you cannot turn off the power supply to your basement, it is best to call a professional. Water and electricity are a deadly mix; proceed with caution.
Sewage
If a significant amount of rainwater is flooding in your basement, it is likely that the water could contain sewage. Harmful germs and bacteria may be lurking in the water, so you should only enter it while wearing protective clothing. Avoid getting water near your face or eyes, and immediately wash any areas that come into contact with the water.
Structural Damage
It is unlikely, but possible, that your wet basement may either have been caused by or resulted in structural damage. If you believe that the integrity of your home has been compromised, stay out of the basement and call a professional contractor.
Identify the Source
Once you have taken adequate safety measures, it’s time to determine what the source of your water problem is. Here are some of the most common issues behind water in your basement.
Gutters
If your gutter system isn’t properly directing water away from your home, it may be the source of your basement’s water problem. You’ll be able to tell if this is the problem if you have standing water near the foundation of your home after it rains.
Cracks
Cracks in your basement walls or in the foundation of your home may be the cause of your water problem. Check for this by doing a visual inspection in the affected areas.
Pipes
A plumbing issue may lead to water in your basement. If you notice water dripping from your pipes, then they are likely the source of your problem.
Groundwater
Sometimes during a heavy rain, the ground around your home cannot absorb all of the water. In this case, the water will likely come up from the flooring of your basement.
Make the Repair
Once you have determined the source of your water problem, it’s time to make the repair. Many of the issues above can be solved by you as the homeowner, but don’t hesitate to call in a professional if you feel that the task is too daunting. To keep water from damaging your basement,
- Properly angle your gutter system away from your home
- Seal any cracks in your walls, foundations, or window wells
- Fix plumbing and stop pipe leaks
- Install a sump pump for reinforcement
Address the Area
If you’ve had water in your basement, chances are that the area needs some TLC. Improper care can lead to mold, rot, and bacteria. Complete the following steps to fix your wet basement.
Dry
Use a wet/dry vac to remove excess water from the floor of your basement. Utilize a dehumidifier in your basement to reduce condensation and humidity.
Clean
Use antibacterial cleaning supplies to sterilize any areas that may have been exposed to contaminated water.
Remove
Remove any furniture, carpeting, and other fibrous materials that have been damaged. It is best to dispose of any materials that might harbor moisture and future mold growth.
Contact a Professional
In some cases, the condition of your basement will be too much for you to handle on your own. Fortunately, there are professionals who will be able to identify the source of your water infiltration, repair the issue, and prevent future water damage to your basement.
If you’re in need of professional plumbing services, choose the team at RFV Plumbing & Electrical. With more than 50 years of experience, you can trust the plumbing contractors at Pacific Sheet Metal and RFV Plumbing & Electrical to get your job done right. Give us a call today!
