What to do when you have water damage: Addressing Rainwater Intrusion in your Basement
- Elmer
- Aug 28, 2023
- 3 min read
Dealing with the aftermath of rainwater intrusion in your basement can be a daunting task. The havoc wreaked by water entering through basement walls can lead to significant water damage, posing a threat to the structure of your home. In this comprehensive guide, tailored for New Jersey homeowners (because we know how much it rains in NJ), we will walk you through the essential steps to take when rainwater finds its way into your basement, from immediate response to long-term prevention strategies.
Immediate Response:
Prioritize Safety: The safety of your family is the most important. If you suspect rainwater is infiltrating your basement, promptly cut off the power supply to the affected area to prevent potential electrical hazards!
Uncover the Source: Pinpoint the entry point of water intrusion. Often, it seeps in through cracks in the foundation or improperly sealed windows, exacerbating the water damage.
Secure Valuables: Safeguard your possessions by relocating furniture and valuable items away from the water damage area. If possible, elevate items to avoid further water damage.
Battle the Water: Utilize a wet/dry vacuum to eliminate standing water. For extensive water accumulation, enlisting the expertise of a professional restoration company is recommended. 🙋🏻♂️
Initiate Drying: Boost air circulation by opening windows (once water has stopped entering home) and employing fans or dehumidifiers to hasten the drying process. Mold growth becomes a concern within a short timeframe, underscoring the importance of swift action.
Remember all of this is just temporary. It helps stop the amount of water entering your home, but it does not solve the problem!
Long-term Prevention:
Grade Landscape: Adjust the landscape to facilitate natural water runoff away from the foundation. Proper grading ensures rainwater is directed away from your home, helping you minimizing the risk of water damage.
Implement French Drains: In cases where drainage issues persist, consider the installation of a French drain system. This system collects and redirects groundwater, curbing basement water infiltration.
Embrace Exterior Waterproofing: Apply waterproof coatings or membranes to foundation walls. This extra layer of protection proves invaluable in guarding against rainwater intrusion.
Interior Drainage System: Opt for an interior drainage system complete with a sump pump, which are perfect for collecting and rerouting groundwater that may penetrate your basement.
Consistent Maintenance: Regularly inspect gutters, downspouts, and the foundation for telltale signs of damage. Seasonal gutter cleaning is essential to prevent clogs that can exacerbate water infiltration.
Seek Professional Assistance:
For severe water damage, persistent leaks, or extensive destruction, engaging professional assistance is highly advisable. Waterproofing contractors and restoration companies possess the expertise to evaluate the situation and propose tailored remedies for your home's specific requirements. We at Elmer's are experts in home waterproofing!
Conclusion:
Rainwater intrusion, with the potential for water damage, demands swift and strategic action. By adhering to the guidelines delineated in this quick guide – spanning immediate response to enduring prevention – you can mitigate damage, be prepared for future incidents, and preserve your home basement. This should help your home's structural soundness and safeguard your investment against the challenges posed by rainwater infiltration through basement walls that are caused all over the state of New Jersey!
Need help waterproofing your home. Contact us for a free consultation. Let's put an end to water damage in your home!
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