A flooded basement in winter can be a homeowner’s worst nightmare. In this comprehensive guide backed by our many years of experience in basement waterproofing, you’ll discover what causes your basement to leak, along with some prevention tips and what to do if you have a flooded basement.
Why Your Basement Might Leak
Some common reasons for a flooded basement in winter include hydrostatic pressure, improper grading, and a damaged sump pump.
1. Hydrostatic Pressure
Even in freezing temperatures, the warmth from your basement can cause nearby snow to melt. This melting snow creates moisture that becomes trapped between the frozen soil and your basement walls.
As moisture levels rise, hydrostatic pressure builds up around your foundation. This pressure pushes water into your basement through cracks, weak joints, or unsealed areas, leading to leaks and flooding.
2. Improper Downspout Placement
Downspouts that direct water too close to your foundation can aggravate flooding issues. In winter, melting snow or rainwater from your roof can pool around your basement, increasing the risk of leaks.
3. The Wrong Type of Soil
Certain types of soil such as loam soil can help prevent a flooded basement in winter. This is because they drain the water and pull it away from your basement. On the other hand, some types of soil absorb the water and keep it trapped against your basement walls, which can lead to cracks or other problems due to hydrostatic pressure.
4. Improper Grading
If the land around your home is not graded properly, water will flow toward your foundation instead of away from it. This can lead to water pooling near your basement walls, increasing the chances of flooding.
5. Cracks in Your Basement Walls and Floors
Over time, natural settling or hydrostatic pressure can cause cracks in your basement walls and floors. These cracks provide an easy entry point for water, particularly during winter when snowmelt or rainwater can accumulate around your foundation.
6. Damaged Sump Pump
Snow will eventually melt, and water will accumulate. A damaged or malfunctioning sump pump can fail to remove excess water from your basement, causing a flood.
7. Frozen Pipes
It’s no surprise that one of the most common causes of basement flooding in winter involves frozen pipes. Once a pipe experiences a freeze, it will suffer internal pressure that’s looking for a way to get out. Often times, the “escape” for moisture inside a frozen pipe will be bursting inside your basement.
8. Leaky Window Wells
If basement window wells are improperly sealed or their drainage systems are clogged with debris then water from melting snow can collect inside and start leaking into your basement.
Tips to Prevent Basement Flooding in Winter
It’s much easier and more cost-effective to prepare your home for potential winter flooding than it is to deal with the emergencies that can come after. Before the snow hits, follow the Team EverDry winter checklist to make sure that you’re prepared.
Inspect Your Basement for Cracks
Before the weather turns cold and wet, check your basement walls for any significant cracks. While small hairline fractures are hard to avoid, you want to pay attention to any crack that’s more significant than a small line – especially if you notice one growing since the last time you saw it! Repair any that you find by drying the crack, scrubbing out any loose concrete, and filling them with epoxy crack sealer.
If you’re not a DIY type, EverDry Toledo can help protect your home with foundation crack injections that will seal the gap to help stop moisture from getting in.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Working gutters should be capable of capturing any melting snow on your roof and running it far enough from your foundation so that pressure does not build up and cause cracks. Make sure to inspect and clean your gutters and downspouts thoroughly before winter. A pressure washer and a trowel are both great tools for this.
Clear the Snow
Shoveling snow can feel like a punishment. But it’s a necessary part of keeping your property clear and safe. But when you’re done clearing the driveway, there’s still more to shovel!
Each time you go out to clear snow from your property, don’t forget to check the sides of your home. Snow that’s pressed up near the foundation of your home will eventually melt; the snow melt may happen quickly, putting a lot of pressure on the exterior of your basement.
You don’t need to completely remove the snow. Just do your best to clear a foot or two away from your foundation. This will go a long way towards preventing moisture buildup around your home and to the fight against winter basement flooding!
Protect Your Pipes
You can prevent pipe freezing from happening in your home. Take these precautions, especially if the forecast calls for severely cold weather overnight:
- Wrap your pipes with pipe wrap
- Consider a pipe warmer if your home frequently has frozen pipe issues
- Turn faucets on to let a very small drip of warm water out overnight
- Open cabinets in vanities or under your sink to allow the warmer air in your home to reach some of your pipes (Please note to only do this if it’s safe.
Inspect Your Sump Pump
One unique winter issue for sump pumps is the water in the pump basin freezing over. Keep an eye on your pump and look for issues that may indicate sump pump failure! The earlier you catch it, the less likely you are to experience a winter flooding catastrophe.
Consider Hiring Professional Basement Waterproofing
Dealing with a flooded basement can be stressful, but professional basement waterproofing offers a long-term solution.
An expert basement waterproofing company such as EverDry Toledo can identify the specific causes of water intrusion, whether it’s cracks or poor drainage, and implement tailored solutions to protect your home. Professionals ensure your basement remains dry, even during harsh winter conditions.
Investing in waterproofing not only prevents costly repairs but also provides peace of mind for years to come. Give us a call at (419) 841-6055 or contact us online to get a free 20-point basement inspection.
What to Do if You Have a Flooded Basement in Winter
Taking immediate action when your basement floods is crucial to minimize damage and ensure safety. Here’s what you can do:
1. Put Safety First
Before entering a flooded basement, prioritize safety. Turn off the circuit breakers to the basement to prevent electrical hazards. Contact a licensed electrician to assess whether it’s safe to begin water removal. If you detect the smell of gas or if your carbon monoxide alarm is triggered, leave your home immediately and call 9-1-1.
2. Call Your Insurance Company
After ensuring your safety, contact your insurance company to report the flooding. Document the damage by taking photos and videos of the affected areas, as this evidence will be essential when filing a claim.
Does Insurance Cover a Flooded Basement?
Insurance coverage for a flooded basement varies depending on the cause. For example, damage from burst pipes is often covered, but flooding due to natural disasters may require separate flood insurance. Call your provider to confirm what your policy includes.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix a Flooded Basement?
The cost to repair a flooded basement depends on the extent of the damage and whether you have insurance. Without adequate coverage, you may have to pay entirely out of pocket, which can range from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on repairs needed.
3. Stop The Source of the Water
To prevent further damage, locate the source of the flooding and stop the water from entering your basement. This step is critical to avoid additional damage to your basement and potentially other parts of your home.
4. Pump the Standing Water Out of the Basement
Once it is safe, remove the standing water from your basement using a special vacuum for liquids or a sump pump. Do not use a standard vacuum, as these can cause electrical hazards or damage the equipment.
5. Drying Out Your Flooded Basement
After removing the standing water, ensure the basement is thoroughly dried. Use industrial fans and dehumidifiers to dry out walls, floors, and furniture to prevent mold growth. This step is essential to protect your home from long-term damage.
6. Clean Salvageable Items and Remove Damaged Ones
Carefully assess items in your basement to determine what can be salvaged and what must be discarded. Clean and dry salvageable belongings thoroughly to prevent mold, and remove irreparably damaged items to avoid contamination.
7. Sanitize Everything
Sanitizing is a crucial step after flooding, especially in the case of sewage backups. Use a bleach-based cleaner to disinfect all surfaces, removing mold, and bacteria. Thorough cleaning ensures your basement is safe for future use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to common concerns about dealing with a flooded basement in winter.
Can I File an Insurance Claim for a Flooded Basement in Winter?
Yes, you can file an insurance claim for a flooded basement during winter. However, coverage depends on the cause of the flooding and the specifics of your policy. It’s recommended to call your insurance provider to confirm your coverage and ensure you’re protected against floods, especially during the winter months.
What Is the #1 Cause of Basement Flooding During Winter?
The primary cause of basement flooding during winter is snow buildup and its eventual melting. Even in freezing temperatures, the warmth from your basement can cause nearby snow to melt. Eventually, hydrostatic pressure around your foundation will force water through cracks, joints, or unsealed areas, resulting in leaks or flooding.
Who Do I Call if My Basement Keeps Flooding During Winter?
If your basement consistently floods during winter, it’s time to call a professional basement waterproofing company like EverDry Toledo. Serving northern Ohio and southeast Michigan since 1986, EverDry Toledo specializes in preventing and addressing basement flooding with reliable and effective solutions tailored to your home. Give us a call at (419) 841-6055 or contact us online to get started today!
Contact Team EverDry Today!
Want extra basement protection this winter? EverDry can help! We offer a free 20-point basement inspection to any homeowner who wants to make sure their basement is safe and secure. Contact us online to schedule an appointment or give us a call at (419) 841-6055 to get started today!
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