Basement Waterproofing - How Droughts Can Cause Sump Pump Failures & Easy Access For Ground Water Penetration

Weather and Soil Relations:

Many people may think that in order for their basement to flood, it would require heavy rain during an already high average rainfall period. We are here to tell you that while this is true, it is also true that a moderate rainstorm during an arid period can also cause your basement to flood. When soil becomes dry during a drought (like as of recently), it fades and shrinks away from your home's foundation. The result is open space next to your home's foundation, waiting to be filled by even the slightest of rainfalls. When rain water has such an easy path to pile up on your foundation walls, it's important to take cautionary steps so your basement does not flood:

• Making sure your sump pit has water in it can actually help it be prepared to receive water. Sump pumps have many different activation switches, and when they don't have water in them, these switches can rust away. It's almost like starting a car that sits in your garage every once in a while so that it has a chance to lubricate itself. Filling your sump pit is also helpful in making sure it still works. If you aren't sure if your pump is working properly, give us a call for help! Our dedicated service team is the best at helping people out with their sump pump troubles.
• Checking your gutters and making sure they aren't clogged is also helpful. They should also discharge to a safe spot away from your homes foundation.
• Lastly, it also may be helpful to lightly water the soil around your foundation every once in a while. Making sure the top of your soil is saturated may help to close the cracks in the soil and prevent the rain water from having a straight shot to run down to your foundation walls. This will also help prevent your homes foundation from sinking due to the shrinking soil, (which many people are experiencing issues with right now). If you do water your homes foundation, make sure you test your waterproofing system first. Watering your foundation may cause your basement to flood if not carefully implemented.

It is essential to take precautionary steps during all times and climates of the year to keep your home safe from water damage. Be sure to follow our social media pages for the latest news on weather and how it relates to your basements.

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