5 Tips for Getting Your Basement in Tip-Top Shape before the Holidays

By:    |   Published November 23, 2015
happy thanksgiving text over wooden background | EverDry Toledo

The holiday season is fast approaching, and with it comes visits from family and friends. During this time of year, many people utilize their basements for extra storage space as well as sleeping accommodations for overnight visitors. If you plan on using your basement this holiday season, there are a few basement tips and tricks you need to get it in proper condition.

Prepping your Basement for Guests

While your first thought when it comes to preparing your basement for guests might be cleaning, making beds, and decorating or adding other amenities, your initial focus should be on making sure the structure itself is in good guest condition. The last thing you want when you have family or friends staying in your basement is any flooding, freezing, or drains overflowing. To avoid those kinds of holiday disasters, follow these five tips before your guests arrive:

Tip #1 – Check for Water

Windows are a primary source of unwanted moisture in the home, so take a moment to check all basement windows for any signs of water. Any signs of water pooling can be an issue if you have any foundation cracks, so if you see them, either replace your window wells or purchase bubble window treatments for a more affordable, quick and temporary fix.

Tip #2 – Inspect Your Sump Pump

Look for any pooling water around your sump pump hose, including dips in the basement floor that could collect water. When it gets cold out, any water around your sump pump could freeze and cause the pump to stop working. Water should always flow away from the pump without issues, so if you do encounter any water, it’s important that you call in a professional for repairs as soon as possible.

Tip #3 – Seal Cracks

Exterior basement cracks can let water in during rain or snow storms, and the freezing temperatures can cause any trapped water to widen the cracks, setting the stage for mold issues down the road. To protect your basement from these problems, fill any foundation cracks with a silicone or hydraulic cement.

Tip #4 – Prep Your Pipes

If water freezes in your pipes, it can expand and cause cracks, leading to serious flooding issues. To avoid such costly damage and repairs needed after, prepare your pipes for the cold by wrapping them with heat tape or cables.

Tip #5 – Shovel

To avoid the ice accumulating near your foundation that can lead to flooding issues once melting begins, be sure to shovel any snow away from your home’s foundation as soon as possible. Also, avoid piling any snow or ice against your house when you do shovel, as this can also lead to excessive moisture and possible flooding in your basement.

Contact Team EverDry Today!

Don’t have the time to prep your basement for the holidays yourself, or just want to make sure every potential issue is spotted and resolved before your guests arrive? EverDry Toledo can help! Schedule an appointment today and get your free 20-point inspection.  Contact us online or give us a call at (419) 841-6055 to get started today!

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