A strong foundation also comes with preventative care. Homes that flood frequently need additional defenses to stop excessive water. Fortunately, there are several strategies to protect water from entering or damaging your home’s foundation.
Take Care of the Rain Gutters
Gutters are essential to prevent flooding for a variety of reasons. Primarily, they work to direct water away from the home’s foundation. If gutters are full of leaves, branches, dirt, and animal nests, the water will accumulate and overflow, putting the roof and the foundation at risk.
Ensure the Yard Slopes Downward From the House
When you stand at the back of your house, does your yard slope upward or downward? Upward slopes will encourage the water to flow toward the foundation. Downward slopes send extra rainwater away from the house through the soil.
Install a Dry Well
If you endure persistent foundation floods, a dry well is a valuable option. The underground structure is built with porous walls to efficiently promote the water to flow in the opposite direction of your home.
The well is available in three possible forms: a hole filled with gravel, a poured concrete container, or a plastic container. The average cost is $3,000, but it will vary depending on the type of dry well and how much water you must direct away from the house.
Use Mulch in the Garden Beds
Did you know that upgrading your garden beds can help your home’s flooding problem? Choose a heavy-duty mulch that stops water flow. Whenever it rains heavily, the mulch will absorb extensive amounts of water. This effective strategy will spruce up your home while protecting the foundation from water.
Secure the Foundation With Sealants
Aging homes settle and are likely to suffer cracks as a result. Applying sealants can improve the home’s structural stability and the ability to stop flowing water.
Always consult a professional before applying any foundational sealants on your own. Their expertise will guarantee the house’s foundation is secure while preventing moisture penetration.
Regularly Inspect the Plumbing System
Rain is the most common cause of flooded foundations, but faulty plumbing pipes are right behind. If flooding is a troublesome reoccurrence, be sure to have a plumber inspect both interior and exterior pipes. A settling house, an unstable foundation, and corroded pipes are all potential issues that might cause additional water to flood the house.
