As they say, the best way to solve a problem is to prevent it from happening in the first place. This holds true for basement flooding as well. Did you know that there are simple things you can do to ensure that your basement stays dry here in Columbus and Central Ohio? This article will help show what you should look for to maintain a dry basement.
1. Maintain Your Sump Pump
The first and easiest thing you can do to keep a dry basement is maintain your sump pump. A sump pump’s job is to pump water out that is trying to seep into the foundation. Routine checks throughout the year are a must.
When checking your sump pump, know the age. On average, sump pumps last 5–7 years. The next time it rains heavily, observes how it operates. Did it turn on automatically? Did it make any unusual sounds? If you noticed an issue, it might be time for a new sump pump.
2. Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
Turning from your basement to your roof, gutters and downspouts are the main defense when it comes to flooding. If they are clogged, water won’t get pushed away from the house which makes it easier to seep into your basement. Be mindful to clean and check your gutters, especially if your home is near large trees.
3. Understand Your Home’s Drainage
The key to keeping water out of your home is by pushing water away from your foundation. This is the reason for sump pumps, downspouts, and other drainage tools. One of the most important tools have to prevent water from coming in is a good understanding of the land you live on. Does your land slope down from your house? When it rains heavily, where does water collect? Knowing these things gives you the ability to make key adjustments in your drainage system.
Conclusion
Like anything else in your home, routine maintenance will do wonders for the longevity of appliances. Just doing these few simple checks throughout the year will keep your basement dry even through the hardest of storms. If you live in Columbus or Central Ohio and your basement needs some assistance, contact Ohio Basement Professionals. We offer multiple services for your basement including waterproofing and finishing.