Here are 7 Spring Home Maintenance Tips to Prevent Flooding and Moisture
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ToggleSpring is one of the best times of the year – especially if you live through the cold, dark winters typical in the Northeast.
Spring gives us hope. The return of increased daylight, warmer weather, colorful flowers, and birds singing in the morning lifts our spirits.
Of course, spring is also synonymous with rain. Sometimes, heavy and prolonged rainfall that can create moisture and flooding issues in our home and basement.
Flooding is naturally a concern. According to Flood Smart, a 1,000 square foot home flooded with just 1″ of water can lead to over $10,000 worth of damage. Make it 6″ of water and you’re looking at $20,000 worth of restorations. Not only that, but mold and mildew begin growing quickly if the water and moisture are not removed immediately. Health issues such as eye irritation, sneezing, nasal congestion, and skin irritation can result even if we don’t spend a lot of time in our basement. Did you know that up to 50% of the air we breathe in our homes comes from the basement? Also, structural weaknesses can develop and lead to the overall value of our home decreasing.
So what can be done to prevent flooding and moisture entry?
1) Remove any snow that remains near the foundation
- Snow can melt and then refreeze in foundation cracks, expanding them
- This allows easier access to water in the future
2) Make sure gutters are free of debris and that water is sent at least 6′ away from the house
- Clogged gutters will cause water to back up into the shingles and fall to the foundation.
- Same for leaders if they are not far enough out
3) Seal any cracks in the foundation walls and floor
- Simple crack sealing of your foundation will keep out moisture, debris, and even insects
4) Consider the application of a penetrating, capillary sealer
- It will get into the pores of the concrete from the inside and seal it
5) If you have below-grade basement windows, install window well covers
- Clear, acrylic covers will keep rain, leaves, and insects out while allowing sunlight in
6) Review your property insurance policy
- Consider additional coverage, especially if you have a finished basement
- Most homeowner’s insurance policies don’t cover flooding or the sewer backing up
7) Have septic tanks inspected and cleaned
- You don’t want them to be clogged or overloaded when spring rains arrive
These preventive measures will save you aggravation, costly repairs, and valuable time. Spring is a time of refreshment and hope. Preventing water and moisture from getting in our basements will keep it that way.
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