The basement ...... I don't think we realize what an important part of the house this is. Yes its a place where we send our children and their friends to play, but think about it ..... its the one area in your home where I bet you store your most precious items. I am not talking about jewelry or your kids ;), but all the sentimental stuff, old photos, new photos, artwork bought home by your kids, keepsake boxes with your daughters first everthing in, your son's first pair of hockey skates, those boxes of your stuff that your parents have now returned to you with all your firsts in. So its a pretty important place to keep safe.
If your basement leaks or it tends to flood every spring when the ground thaws and the rains come, you can vouch for just how frustrating and stressful this problem can be.
The good news is there are ways to help prevent basement flooding. Using the maintenance tips below, you can reduce the risk of flooding in your basement.
Clean and Maintain the Gutters
Keeping your home’s gutters in tip-top shape is a must. Not only will it reduce deterioration on your home’s foundation, but it will also help keep water from pooling around and running into your basement when it rains. Make sure the gutters around the roof of your home are free of leaves and other debris. Clean them out regularly, especially if you don’t have gutter covers. If they aren’t already, extend downspouts at least three feet away from your home so water runs away from it when it rains.
Pay Attention to Landscaping
As silly as it sounds, the landscaping around your property could be contributing to your basement flooding risk. For example, if your lawn slopes toward your home, it will encourage water to pool around the foundation and eventually find its way inside. Consider regrading your lawn or installing a French drain to keep water at bay.
Maintain the Foundation
Cracks and other weaknesses in your home’s foundation can allow water inside. If you notice any cracks in the foundation, fill them in with epoxy. If the damage is too severe, or water still gets inside, you may need to contact a professional to address the issue.
Maintain Your Sump Pump
If your home has a sump pump, you’re already one step ahead in keeping your basement dry. It’s important that you maintain the sump pump, however, so it can do its job when you need it most. If possible, keep an extra sump pump on hand just in case yours quits working, and make sure it’s functioning properly if you know a storm is coming.
Install Window Well Covers
Window well covers do a great job of waterproofing your basement. In fact, all below-grade basement windows should have these covers. You can help keep your basement bright by choosing clear acrylic window well covers that attach securely to the windows and to your home’s foundation.
Futhermore, a flooded basement may not be covered under a typical homeowner’s insurance policy. So take precautions and take a look at the above list.
JL Realty Group 
