Friday 19 April 2013

Strategies on Avoiding Basement Flooding

By Kris T. Larsson


Basements are at the highest danger for sustaining water damage during the spring months. All over Canada, basement flooding is something that happens with too much frequency. This problem is avoidable in many cases, so one only has to be knowledgeable to prevent this problem from occurring.

Basements have issues with water because of a lot of different causes. Water in your basement is most likely to occur during periods of heavy rainfall, or when snow is melting rapidly during a spring thaw. A crack in the basement wall could leak water inside the home. insufficient lot drainage; breakdown of weeping tiles (drains for foundation); or plugged downspouts.

A dry basement is the goal, so in order to achieve that, remember these tips to use inside the home, and outside as well.

1. If you don't have a sump pump or backflow valve, think about installing one or both, especially if you live in an area that's susceptible to flooding. IA sump pit drainage system includes a sump pit, a sump pump and a discharge pipe. The basement floor is fitted with a sump pit, and this collects water in the basement, that is due to the weeping tiles. Water is drained to the outside of the home funnelled through the discharge pipe that is installed. If you already have one, test regularly to ensure it works.

2. A leaky water heater could release a lot of water in a short period of time. Making a water heater starts inside, and works out; with an inner tank, some insulation in the middle and a painted outer tank. If you have a leaking hot water heater that does not leak from any of the valves on the outer tank, this can indicated that your inner tank is leaking. Replacing the tank is an obvious solution.

3. The main water valve to the home should be turned off when there will be no occupants for an extended time. Simply close the shut-off valve and open faucets to relieve pressure in the lines. Closing individual appliances water valves like the washing machine, and toilets and tubs is a good idea, if there is not a shut off valve. If a plumbing problem occurs while away, these simple measures could protect your property from damage and high costs associated with a water leak.

4. The dishwasher, washing machine, and fridge all have hoses that could potentially crack and leak, so be sure to have a look at them periodically. Reinforced steel braided hoses are stronger, and should be installed, getting rid of rubber or plastic. One should replace every 5 years, regardless of how the hoses appear. Hoses come apart from the inside out, so the damage could be unseen. The replacement date of the hose should be written on it. If a connection to a hose is a bit loose, simply tighten it.

Despite your best preventative efforts, you may still experience flooding. It's best to confirm that your home insurance policy provides proper coverage against water damage. Many policies specifically exclude damage from ground water, water from the rising of the water tables, repeated seepage and leakage and the cost to repair faulty workmanship. Speak to your insurer to ensure you have the coverage you need.




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