Spring is in swing throughout Northeast, Ohio, but warmer weather isn’t the only thing to await. With the pollen season also comes heavy rains that are necessary, but not always the best for the basement. For homeowners, this means a higher risk of basement moisture, leaks, or even flooding. Taking a little time to prepare the basement can save you from expensive repairs and stress as the forecast predicts showers. Here are 5 simple steps that every homeowner should take to prepare for spring monsoons this year, and every year.
Table of Contents
1. Inspect Your Basement for Moisture
Before the rainy season kicks into full gear, your first step should always be giving the basement a thorough check. Begin by checking for damp spots, water stains, musty odors, or even visible mold. These are signs that your basement may have already suffered from water damage. Additionally, you’ll want to look out for cracks in the walls or foundation, since this is a major red flag that water damage is impending. Even minute problems can quickly turn into large problems once consistent rainfall begins, giving the basement little time to stabilize between showers. Catching these problems early is key so that you can take proactive measures rather than reacting to the problems after it is too late.
2. Clean & Test Gutters & Downspouts
It may not seem so directly related, but the home’s exterior drainage system plays a massive role in keeping any basement dry. Clogged gutters or short downspouts may cause rainwater to pool near the foundation. Clean out your gutters and ensure that downspouts are directing all water at least a few feet away from the foundation. Poor outdoor drainage will make keeping water outside of the interior of your home a much harder task.
3. Seal Cracks and Waterproof Walls
Water has a way of sneakily intruding even into the smallest openings. Small cracks in the walls of floors will allow water to creep in. For a temporary bandaid, use waterproof sealants on cracks in the walls or floors, and be sure to check around windows or pipe entries for gaps. Reinforcing these areas creates an extra layer of protection when the rain starts down pouring.
4. Test Your Sump Pump
If you do have a sump pump, early spring is the time to ensure that it is working properly and efficiently. To test it, you can pour water into the pit to see if it activates and drains efficiently. It’s also a good idea to always have a backup battery. With heavy rains sometimes comes power outages from storms, and without a spare battery, the sump pump can’t function properly and puts your home at higher risk.
5. Declutter, Reorganize, and Elevate Belongings
Most homeowners either use their basement as a hangout location or for storage. You should strongly consider reorganizing and getting all important belongings off of the floor in case of basement flooding. Use shelving or plastic bins when possible. Avoid using cardboard boxes as they can easily host mold and ruin your belongings. This tedious but simple step can be the difference between safe, mold-free items or destroyed things should water find its way in during the spring.
Conclusion
At Wise Waterproofing in Akron, we’ve seen it all, and can provide you with all the best tips and tricks to keep your home safe. Should water enter your basement, we’re here to help you on the road to underground recovery. Get in contact with us today to learn about what we can do for you and your family this spring! Spring rains don’t have to mean trouble – with a little prep work and extra attention to the details, we can work together to keep your basement dry and protected.
