Basement flooding can happen at any time due to any number of factors like severe storms or burst pipes. In fact, insurance studies suggest that 98% of homes will experience basement water damage at some point. When damage does occur, it leaves behind a mess and damages your belongings. While you can't prevent a flood from happening, there are steps you can take to minimize the impact it has on your home.
The experts at Premier Basement Waterproofing are here to discuss the best solutions for keeping your basement dry. With 20 years of experience, we understand the unique needs of homeowners in New England's climate.
Why It's Important to Keep Water Out of Your Basement
Beyond avoiding the task of cleaning up after a flood, there are many reasons why you should keep water out of your basement. These include:
1. Avoiding Structural Damage
Your home is built over your basement, so keeping it in good condition is critical. Water damage can weaken foundation walls and other structural elements, causing cracks and shifts that could potentially compromise its stability and your safety.
Some signs that this type of structural damage is occurring include uneven floors and bowing walls. While foundation repair is possible, it can be expensive and invasive. Keeping water from entering your basement can prevent these issues.
2. Protecting Your Belongings
Your basement is a great place to store items you need but don't regularly use. However, this can also make your belongings more susceptible to water damage in the event that your basement floods.
If you know your basement is prone to flooding and want to keep your belongings dry, you can move them to a more secure location and use waterproof containers, like plastic totes, to store them.
3. Mold Growth Prevention
Mold thrives in moist environments, like your basement. After a flood, it can take just 1-2 days for mold to grow. Failure to remove mold from your basement can lead to respiratory health issues in both humans and pets. By keeping water out of your basement, you reduce the risk of mold growth and related health concerns.
4. Financial Benefits
When it comes to maintaining your home, it is often more economical to prevent or mitigate a minor issue before it becomes a major problem that is more expensive to repair. Waterproofing your basement is no exception.
It is cheaper and easier to waterproof a basement than it is to restore it after water damage has occurred. Also, adding certain waterproofing elements, like drainage systems, can increase the property value of your home.
How to Keep Water Out of Your Basement
Basements are particularly prone to flooding due to their location in your home. While you cannot prevent flooding, you can waterproof your basement to help reduce the risk of water damage. Some ways you can do this include:
- Sealing cracks
- Applying waterproofing solutions
- Installing a drainage system
For help waterproofing your basement, contact a professional, like those at Premier. They can provide solutions tailored to your specific needs, including the size and structure of your basement.
What to Do if Your Basement Floods
Boston's proximity to the coast makes it particularly vulnerable to flooding. When this water makes its way into your basement, there are steps you can take to minimize the damage, including:
1. Assess Any Damage
First, determine how much water has flooded your basement, what has been damaged, and the extent of repairs needed. Then, document the damage, as this can help you if you choose to make an insurance claim.
2. Clean Up
Once you've assessed the situation, you can begin to clean up. This involves:
- Removing standing water from the basement
- Discarding unsalvagable, water-damaged items
- Disinfecting items that came into contact with floodwater
- Drying out the basement with whole-home dehumidifiers and professional-grade fans
Without the proper training, it can be risky to try cleaning your basement yourself. Consider hiring a restoration company that specializes in water damage and will come prepared to identify and address mold issues, structural problems, and fast drying techniques that prevent both of these issues.
3. File an Insurance Claim
Depending on the type of flooding that occurred, your homeowners' insurance policy may cover the damage. However, you should contact your insurance company ahead of time to confirm that you have this type of coverage. If you have flood damage coverage, promptly file a claim with your insurance.
Waterproof Your Basement in Boston With Premier
Due to our unique climate, preparing for the possibility of basement flooding is something homeowners in Boston need to consider. For help with these types of preparations, reach out to Premier Basement Waterproofing.
We have over 20 years' worth of knowledge and expertise in basement waterproofing and other preparations. For an estimate on our basement waterproofing services, contact us online or call (844) 548-3379.
Mitigate Flood Damage in Your Basement With Premier
If your basement is prone to flooding, call on Premier Basement Waterproofing. We can help you find the most effective way to keep your basement clean and dry. We're proud to have served homeowners in Boston for the past two decades. To request an estimate on our basement waterproofing services, contact us today.