How to Prevent Dangerous Basement Flooding
If you own a home in this region, you may face a persistent risk: flooding. Basement flooding can result from one of multiple sources, including cracks in the wall or floor, burst pipes, leaking windows, clogged gutters, or sump pump failure. Furthermore, the Virginia Institute of Marine Science indicates that heavy precipitation and storm surges will worsen in the coming years. So, how can you protect your basement and your home?
If you haven’t addressed your basement’s susceptibility to flooding, contact NV Waterproofing & Foundation Repair. We provide comprehensive basement waterproofing services. Our technicians can design interior water management systems and exterior waterproofing solutions.
We have discussed in previous blogs how to prevent basement flooding from plumbing failures and wall cracks. Here, we discuss the significant danger of a flooded basement and how to protect against external flooding sources (like excess surface water and high water table risks).
A Flooded Basement is a Dangerous Basement
First and foremost, you should keep in mind that water from flooding poses a significant electrocution hazard. Generally, deep water indicates greater danger since higher levels can reach electrical outlets and/or service panels. So, if your basement is deeply flooded and its electricity is on, do not wade into the water. Call emergency services.
Once you can determine that the water does not present an electrocution hazard, reach out to our team. One of our trained experts will examine your basement and determine the source(s) of the problem. If your basement floods once, it can happen again. Get professional help to protect your home.
After Removing the Water
Even after flood water is expelled from your basement (and, in the case of large-scale flooding, dangerous conditions have passed), dangers are still present. You should assume that all electrical devices exposed to moisture must be replaced: outlets, service panels, switches, electrical and gas-fired appliances, and so on. Keeping water-affected electrical devices may create a significant risk to your home.
Any drywall that the water reached must be replaced in order to prevent mold and moisture damage. The same goes for carpets, hardwood floors, and trim.
Waterproofing and Water Management
Whether your basement has flooded several times or never, many external sources of water threaten it. Excess surface water can seep in through hatchways or windows; hydrostatic pressure may push through the walls; and municipal storm drains might back up during extreme weather events.
However, landscape adjustments can reduce the risks created by these events. NV Waterproofing specialists are available to install a an exterior waterproofing system and drainage system around your home in order to direct water away from the structure.
Further steps can also be taken within your basement. If you’ve noticed a musty smell, damp/discolored walls, or standing water, our teams can address the affected areas by installing a subfloor drainage system. That, along with a sump pump and/or exterior drainage system, can remove moisture build-up and damage, ensuring that flooding does not affect your home again.
NV Waterproofing: Trusted Local Experts in Basement Waterproofing and Repair
The possibility of basement flooding should not be taken lightly, and our basement waterproofing services are the best option to protect your home. Since 1986, we’ve been securing our customers against the heavy rains of our region. Turn to our trusted, experienced teams today by contacting us at 1-703-690-3889 for more information about your options or to get a free quote.
