Basement Flooding Help

Potential Causes

• While it's nearly impossible to prevent basement flooding in the event of a natural disaster, addressing other common causes may prevent chronic flooding. Check the basement walls for integrity; this is much easier in unfinished basements with exposed block, but water damage will show through drywall in finished basements. If the foundation isn't properly waterproofed, water can easily penetrate the walls and flood the basement. Fixing this may require digging out the foundation and lining the walls with waterproofing membrane. Drainage can be improved by adding gravel around the foundation and adjusting the ground's grade so water isn't directed into the basement. If problems with the grade are not addressed, eroding soil can push against the foundation, knocking the blocks out of line and causing even more basement flooding.

Sump Pumps

• Sump pumps are designed to pump groundwater away from the foundation of the house. Drain tile directs water buildup from around the foundation to a pit -- the sump. When the sump is full, the pump activates to pull the water out of the pit. While this is an effective way to prevent basement flooding, a sump pump is a mechanical device that can break down. If you have a sump pump and the basement continues to flood, inspect it to see if the motor has burned out. The pump itself, the sump pump switch and the discharge lines can become clogged with debris and require cleaning for the pump to work. In cases of heavy rain or flooding, the sump may fill faster than the pump can discharge the water, but installing a second or backup pump may help the problem.

Water Removal

• When a basement is flooded, the level of damage can be reduced by acting fast to remove the water from the basement. Before you attempt to enter the basement, turn off the electricity and the gas valves, and then open all windows. In cases of mild flooding, electrical hazards may be a non-issue. A simple shop-vacuum can be used to remove small amounts of water, but this is not practical for severe flood damage because shop-vacuums can only remove small amounts of water at a time and electrical cords are hazardous. Water from severe basement flooding should be pumped away from the house with a gas-powered pump or pump connected to a different electrical source. Pump only 1/3 of the water per day to avoid additional structural damage.

Cleanup

• All furniture and other belongings should be moved outside to dry; assess them for damage when they are dry. Put fans and dehumidifiers around the basement. Mud can be scooped up with shovels. Wet drywall grows mold easily, so it should be removed and replaced; wood paneling is salvageable if it is not warped. Carpet should be removed so the floor underneath can be cleaned. Some carpet damage can be cleaned, but heavily soaked or muddy carpet poses the risk of bacteria and should be replaced. Wash down all wall and floor surfaces with clean water and then again with soapy water. Disinfect basement surfaces, equipment and the sump pump drain with chlorine bleach. Mattresses, pillows, blankets and other fabric-covered items can often be salvaged if cleaned immediately; if they have mold or appear hopelessly dirty, they should be discarded and replaced.