Basement floods after heavy rain can turn your basement into an unsettling nightmare. It’s a story many homeowners in Toronto and the GTA know all too well. If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve experienced this as well. Fear not! I’m here to guide you through eliminating the problem for you. Draincom offers effective, affordable solutions and preventative measures for keeping your basement dry.
Understanding Why Basements Flood After Heavy Rain
First off, why does this happen? Basements flood after a heavy rain for a variety of reasons—poor drainage, clogged gutters, or cracks in the foundation, to name a few. When there is a heavy downpour, water needs somewhere to go, and unfortunately, that somewhere is often your basement. Identifying the specific cause of your basement flooding after rain is the first step toward a dry, happy home. A free inspection is the first step. With more than 20 years of basement flood prevention, Draincom will help you solve the problem. Call us today at 905-238-6800 to schedule an appointment. You may even qualify for the City of Toronto’s Basement Flooding Protection Program.
Immediate Steps to Take When Your Basement Floods
Alright, the basement’s flooded. What now? Don’t panic! There are immediate actions you can do yourself to mitigate the damage.
- First, ensure it’s safe to enter the area. Appliances and other electrical devices directly in the standing water can be dangerous. Turn off the electricity before you enter.
- Get some protective gear. Rubber boots, rubber gloves and protective eyewear help you avoid injury or exposure to mold.
- Begin removing water, drying out the space, and salvaging what you can. Anything that has been soaked for 48 hours should likely be thrown out because mold may have started to grow.
- Pull up carpet if you have any. You need to make sure the underside of the carpet is thoroughly dry before putting it back down.
- Your sump pump should be sufficient for removing the water even if it takes a little time. Draincom can help you with installing the right sump pump for your basement.
Remember, quick response is key to minimizing damage and recovering from basement floods after a heavy rain. Mold can be a bigger problem than just the flooding.
Long-Term Solutions for Preventing Basement Flooding
Now, for the long game. Preventing basement flooding after rain involves a mix of home maintenance and upgrades. Ensuring proper drainage around your home is essential to preventing water seeping into your basement. Installing a proper sump pump is another crucial step. There are obviously a lot of other basement flood prevention steps you can take and a free inspection will help you decide what to do in your unique situation. These steps can significantly reduce the risk of future floods and help deal with floods when they happen.
Installation of a Sump Pump
Investing in a sump pump is a game-changer for basements prone to flooding. It’s designed to automatically pump water out of your basement, keeping the area dry during even the heaviest rain. Installation and maintenance of a sump pump is necessary for anyone with a basement. In Toronto and the GTA, there is enough rain that you are always at risk of your basement flooding. It’s usually a matter of when rather than if your basement will flood after a heavy rain. Without a sump pump, how will you get rid of that water?
Capping and Pipe Severance
Another key strategy is capping and pipe severance. Disconnecting your home’s downspouts from the sewer system and properly capping them prevents water from pooling around your home. It’s a preventive measure that will significantly minimize the risk of basement flooding.
Installation of a Backwater Valve
Consider installing a backwater valve. A backwater valve prevent sewage in an overloaded main sewer line from backing up into your basement. It’s bad enough if your basement floods after rain, but for it to flood with sewage is a much bigger issue. It’s an important line of defense for homes at risk of basement floods after heavy rain.
How Draincom Can Help
Draincom specializes in basement waterproofing and plumbing solutions, We have over 20 years of experience installing sump pumps, capping and pipe severance, installation of backwater valves and more. Draincom offers services that qualify for the Basement Flooding Protection Subsidy Program. This means you can not only protect your home but also potentially get a rebate on the cost of these installations. Call 905-238-6800 or fill out this form to schedule a free inspection and quote.
