Basements are vulnerable to flooding because of their proximity to the ground. Unusual weather patterns, excess snowfall during winter, or burst pipes can lead to flooding, even when the weather outside is dry. A flooded basement can cause catastrophic water damage, so homeowners should avoid it at all costs. 

Here are some of the most common causes of flooding in basements and what you can do if you must deal with flooded basement restoration after a natural disaster or burst pipes.

Burst Water Pipes

One of the primary causes of basement flooding is burst pipes. This can result from regular wear and tear and burst water pipes due to water freezing in the pipes. Water freezing can quickly occur if the basement has no door or has a door that leads to an unheated area. 

It can also occur when the property has a water-main break. Burst water pipes occur due to the change in temperatures and vibration of the lines. The force of the water flowing through the pipes alone can cause them to burst. 

Even a small burst water pipe can cause a huge mess. If you have burst pipes in your basement, schedule a basement flooding restoration service ASAP to prevent water damage.

Frozen Pipes

The same way water pipes can burst when they freeze, they can also freeze and burst when the weather turns cold. Similar to burst water pipes, frozen pipes happen because of the weather, excess snowfall, and burst water pipes. 

The leading cause of frozen pipes is the change in temperature in the pipes. The temperature difference can cause condensation to form inside the pipes, leading to damaged lines.

Heavy Snowfall

Another common cause of basement flooding is heavy snowfall. This can cause basements to flood due to excess snow buildup. 

If you plan to build on a site with a basement, you will need to be aware of the chances of snow buildup in the basement. Depending on where you live, you can remove snow with the help of the government or professional services.

Heavy Rainfalls

Heavy rains can cause flooding in basements as water seeps down through the ground and into the basement. No matter what season it is, there is always a possibility of heavy rainfalls and flooding. 

You should prepare your property for heavy rains by installing a sump pump. This will ensure that water seeping through the ground does not flood your basement.

Accidental Dumping of Raw Sewage

Accidental dumping of raw sewage is another common cause of basement flooding. Old sewage pipes and poor construction of the sewer system can cause this. 

It results from private plumbing negligence and should not be the reason for basement flooding restoration.

How to Prevent Basement Flooding

It is impossible to avoid flooding entirely, but it is possible to reduce the impact. The following are some of the steps you can take to mitigate the chance of flooding and prevent basement flooding:

• Install a sump pump
• Keep the basement door shut and locked
• Install a backflow preventer
• Oust and caulk basement cracks
• Install a check valve

Conclusion

Flooding can happen at any time. It is crucial to prepare for flooding and mitigate any damage as much as possible. Ignoring basement flooding can lead to severe water damage, so you should deal with it as soon as the flood occurs.

Do you need basement flooding repairs in Boise? Trust Master Restoration Idaho. We specialize in fire, mold, and water damage cleanups and repairs. Call us today.