Stop The Flow: Your Guide to Basement Flood Prevention

Whether due to a flash flood from a Texas thunderstorm, a slow leak from a damaged pipe, or groundwater seeping up through the slab, basement water issues are more common than people think. If you’ve ever dealt with one, you know the cleanup is no picnic. The good news is that there’s a lot you can do to prevent a basement flood before it even starts.

In this brief article brought to you by Texas Rooter, we walk through some smart and practical ways to keep your basement dry. If you'd rather have a trained plumber investigate, then contact Texas Rooter to get in touch with a live representative today.

Do You Understand the Risks in Texas?

Texas weather is famously unpredictable. One minute it’s bone-dry; the next, a surprise storm unloads inches of rain in a matter of hours. Flash floods are a serious concern in areas with poor drainage or dense clay soil that doesn’t absorb water well.

Even when Mother Nature isn’t being dramatic, there are other threats to recognize. Outdated plumbing, aging water heaters, leaking washing machine hoses, and poorly-sealed walls are just some that come to mind. In other words, the risk of flooding and water damage in the basement is very real.

Inspect and Maintain Your Plumbing System

A hidden pipe leak, a cracked water line, or a backup in the floor drain can spell disaster if left unchecked. Plumbing issues come in many shapes and sizes, and responsible homeowners will be familiar with many of them. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Check visible pipes for corrosion, dripping, or condensation.
• Inspect water heaters and washing machine hoses for signs of wear or leakage.
• Test your floor drains to make sure they’re flowing freely.
• Know where your main shut-off valve is located and make sure it’s working.

While every property owner ought to know when something is fishy, it is always advisable to schedule annual plumbing inspections by a trained plumber. Professionals can identify problem areas that you might miss, and they'll offer effective and reliable solutions.

Seal the Cracks!

Basement walls and floors are usually made of concrete. Because this material is porous by nature, it must be treated to prevent water from seeping through. Still, tiny cracks can form over time - especially in Texas homes built on shifty clay soils. Water can creep in through these cracks.

Get in the habit of looking closer at your basement walls and floors. Watch out for any cracks, and handle repair as soon as possible. Also remember to periodically coat the wall with fresh sealant. Exterior grading and drainage improvements are also important to keep water flowing away from your foundation.

Install a Sump Pump, and Test Regularly

A sump pump is your basement's best ally against flooding. These devices are installed at the lowest point of the basement, and they automatically pump away water that collects in the basin. Like any mechanical device, it needs routine care to keep it working. So, remember to:

• Test the sump pump every few months by pouring a bucket of water into the pit.
• Clean debris from the pit to prevent clogs.
• Consider a battery backup system for power outages.

If you don’t have a sump pump, or if yours is aging out, we can help install or upgrade to a model that suits your property’s needs. Call or message Texas Rooter to get in touch.

Be Proactive, Not Reactive

The worst time to worry about flooding is when the water is already rising. Don't wait until the damage is done. Schedule a plumbing inspection with Texas Rooter to have a plumber make sure your basement is in good shape. We also offer emergency plumbing repair service, so feel free to call at any time.