Did you know that basement flooding is more common than you think? Basements are most prone to flooding during a rainstorm. However, they can be unexpected and happen at any time of year with the potential to cause severe damage to your home. They can also lead to mold, mildew, and other bacteria growth. Therefore, it’s essential to know how to prevent basement flooding from happening in the first place. Here are the 10 most common causes of basement flooding.

10 Causes of Basement Flooding

1. Plumbing Leaks

Plumbing leaks are one common cause of basement flooding. To determine if you have a plumbing leak, it’s crucial to observe your entire plumbing system, along with the main water line outside of your home. Once you discover the source, you should call a plumbing company ASAP, so they can help you fix it. 

2. Sewer Backup

Sometimes, your basement may flood due to a sewer backup. Water coming from the floor, sink drains, or toilet often indicates this issue. Though in some cases, tree roots that grow around your main line can cause this. Let’s face it—no one wants sewage backup seeping into their basement. Taking proper measures like not flushing anything but toilet paper or installing a sewer backup valve can be useful in keeping this from happening.

3. Drainage System Failure

Your drainage system is responsible for preventing basement flooding from happening in the first place. That said, sometimes drainage systems malfunction, which could remove that safety barrier. A plumbing company will be able to determine the issue with your drainage system. However, in the meantime, you should remove your personal belongings from the basement to prevent further damage.

4. Poor Weatherproofing

Since storms are typically what cause basement flooding in the first place, your home should be properly weatherproofed with a durable sealant and epoxy injection. Any cracks in the wall should also be filled with hydraulic cement. Sump pumps are also a very useful installation because they will collect any water that has accumulated.

5. Improperly Installed Downspouts Causes of Basement Flooding

Improperly installed downspouts are another factor that could play a role in basement flooding. Downspouts, also commonly referred to as drainpipes, are vertical pipes located outside of your home. Their job is to move water away from your home and into your drainage system. If you think your downspout was improperly installed, it doesn’t hurt to contact a plumbing company to make sure.

6. Hot Water Tank Failed

Hot water tanks are responsible for the hot water you use in your home. If your hot water tank fails, your basement is at risk of flooding. Due to the temperature of the water, hot water tank damage can cause major damage to your basement, and your water tank will need to be replaced entirely. Regular maintenance of your water heater can help prevent a hassle like this from occurring.

7. Clogged Gutter

After the water passes from your roof and downspouts, it makes its way into the gutter. Gutters work by draining the rainwater from your home. If gutters overflow from an oversupply of water or debris, the remaining water can leak into your basement and cause flooding. A great way to prevent gutter clogging is to have it cleaned on a regular basis. You can also install something called gutter guards, which filter out debris like leaves or tree branches. 

8. Sump Pump Failure

While sump pumps provide an extra layer of protection against basement flooding, they run the risk of failure as well. This will usually happen in response to an electrical outage and/or a heavy storm. If you suspect that this is the case, be sure to have your sump pump repaired or reinstalled by a reputable plumbing company.

9. Broken Supply Lines/Appliances

Broken supply lines or leaks from other appliances (ex. washing machines) are other causes of basement flooding. It’s always important to contact your local plumbing company right away if you notice any changes to your usual appliances.

10. Poor Sealing Causes of Basement Flooding

Proper sealing isn’t only important when it comes to your basement’s walls. Improper sealing could cause just as much damage. Even the tiniest cracks or openings in your tiles could lead to water drainage into your basement, especially in the event of a storm.

Flooded Water Damage Basement Restoration and Cleanup

Have you received water damage in your basement? Our contractors at Northeast Power Drive are here to help with our 24-hour emergency services for water damage and water removal. Give us a call today at 848-233-3345 or contact us here.