One of the easiest ways to avoid basement flooding during heavy rain is to pay attention to the grading around your home. If your home has a steep or unlevel slope around it, you’ll want to grade it so that water can easily divert away from the foundation. This is an easy DIY project that will prevent water from pooling and flooding the basement. If you have an overly steep slope, consider adding mulch and plants to the area.
Another common cause of basement flooding is a failing sump pump. Sump pumps are designed to pump excess water away from the foundation, but they can fail during torrential rain or when the power goes out. In either case, groundwater may seep into the basement. Another reason for basement flooding is sewer backup. When city sewers become overflowing during heavy rain, water can back up from the sewer, spilling over into the basement. This can cause sewer backup, allowing water to enter through the lowest basement drain.
Once the water has receded, you should disinfect the flooded areas to prevent mold and other potential health problems. Floodwater is a potentially dangerous source of water, so make sure you cover your skin and keep children and pets away from it. Once the water is gone, clean the flooded area in the basement using a mixture of water and chlorine bleach. If there is any visible mold or debris, clean the area well with disinfectant before storing items in the basement.
