How to Handle Water In Basement After Heavy Rain in Sandy Springs

5/18/2020 (Permalink)

Water damage can cause serious issues in your basement

Basement water leaks are an ongoing problem in Sandy Springs, Georgia. It is said that Inspectors estimate 60% of homeowners in the country currently have or had basement water problems. Did you know that newly constructed homes can be prone to leaks? 

The saying "When it rains, it pours" comes true when it comes to water damage. Here at SERVPRO of North Fulton, we have heard it all. 

Some of the frequent calls that we receive include: 

• Water or moisture problems 
• Mold growth after a flooded basement
• Customers looking to learn how to deal with nasty, smelly leaked water in the basement is one of the most frequent calls that we receive. 

We tell our customers that the best way to protect your home and prevent costly damage in the future is to have a SERVPRO technician come out to inspect your home and point out the potential problems for water damage in a home's basement.

Causes of Water Problems In The basement

1. Flooding

The reasons that basements are the most prone to flooding is because they are the lowest part of a house. Depending on the location of your home, it may be more flood-prone. If your home is more susceptible to flooding, we suggest that you protect your property by applying flood control methods, such as installing foundation vents or a sump pump, applying coasting or sealants on the basement walls, and hiring a plumber to install check valves on your basement pipes.

2. Water Seepage

In older homes and homes that are not appropriately built, water can seep through the cracks in your walls as well as other porous materials. Cracks in a basement foundation can happen both horizontal and vertical. The best way to check if your basement foundation has undergone any water seepage is by doing a visual test after it rains. If you see any water stains on your basement walls or floors after it rains, it is a positive indication of water seepage. 

3. Window Well 

A poorly sealed basement window will allow heat and air to leave your basement. However, the opposite occurs when heavy rainfall occurs. The water can enter from the outside and collect in the window wells.

Two Ways That Water Damage In Basement Can Harm Your Home and Family 

1. Mold Growth 

Mold growth takes 24 to 48 hours to invade your basement after water damage. Mold damages various surfaces like walls, floors, and furniture. Mold does not only cause rotting surfaces like wood, but it also puts your family at a higher risk of other problems. 

2. Damaged appliances and electrical wiring

Water that seeps through cracks on the walls can damage electrical appliances in your Sandy Spring basement. Basement appliances include a washer, dryer, water heater, and possibly a furnace. If your electrical problems get wet, they can cause life-threatening accidents to anyone in your family, including your pets.

To prevent the need for water damage restoration in basement, we suggest that you repair damaged pipes and cracks in foundation walls. Doing these things will free you from high basement water damage repair costs. If water damage in your basement does occur, it's best to call restoration professionals if there's any standing water.

Give us a call to schedule an appointment if your basement has clear signs of water damage that was mentioned above at (770) 992-2777 .