Be Prepared: Identifying Solutions to Basement Flooding

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?
2. Where is the basement flooding?

Inspect the location where water is entering and caulk any cracks on the interior.

If the entire wall is damp, or water is entering through multiple wall surfaces, this may be a sign of a faulty or missing water proofing membrane.

• Remove soil around the foundation
• Consider 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 required constant maintenance or they will stop working.)

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

• Install a French Drain at the base of the foundation
• Install a sump pump with a battery backup

*Source: DisasterSafety.org