Keeping Your Basement Dry

by Mary Ann Romans | More from this Blogger

11 Feb 2009 02:34 PM

Late winter and early spring are prime times for getting flooding in your basement and water damage to any belongings that you might have stored there. Melting snow and ice can create plenty of water that seeps in to your basement. At the same time, heavy spring rains can find their way in to your home through the basement. There are several things that you can do to prepare your home and keep your basement dry.

If you have frequent flooding in the basement, consider purchasing a sump pump. A sump pump system will remove any water from the basement as it accumulates before it can turn into a bigger problem. There are several different types of sump pump systems, including dual pumps. You may want to consider a system that can be used with a battery or generator in the case of a power failure.

Of course, there are preparations that can be made to prevent water from ever entering in the first place.

Make sure that your basement drain has anti-backwater valves. This will prevent water from entering through a sewer backup. If you don't have these values or are unsure, contact a qualified plumber. This is an easy way to prevent a potentially bad situation.

Inspect and fix any exterior problems, such as caulking, weather stripping, drainage issues and leaves or debris near the exterior walls of your house.

You also want to protect your belongings in the case of any water in your basement. You can do this by installing belongings on shelves and in waterproof containers. You can purchase plastic shelving units inexpensively to do the job. Any furniture should be kept on casters to make it easier to roll it away in the case of wet spots. Make sure not to block any drains with your belongings.

Mary Ann Romans writes about everything related to saving money in the Frugal Blog, creating a home in the Home Blog, caring for little ones in the Baby Blog and now relationships in the Marriage Blog. You can read more of her articles by clicking here or subscribe to the blog using the subscription box on the right.

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Learn more about Mary Ann Romans

Mary Ann Romans is a freelance writer, wife and mother of three children. She lives in Pennsylvania with her husband, the kids and a 16-pound cat.

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