What is the best way to handle water in the basement when it first happens?

Water in basement

Water in Your Basement?!

When you first see water in your basement, don’t panic. Take the following steps to help you tackle the problem head on. Water in your basement can come from many different sources. Once you are armed with the information regarding the source of the problem, you will be better able to find a solution quickly to minimize further damage.

Step 1: Assess the Situation

The number one rule for any type of emergency is to assess the situation. In doing so you ensure that any actions that you take will not only keep you or someone else out of harm’s way, but also prevent possible further damage. Take a look around the basement and make sure that there are not any wires or electrical devices in or near the water. You don’t want to go poking around in the area of the flood if it is in or near electrical devices and/or wiring. In addition, protect yourself from a possible slip and fall by wearing boots and walking slowly. Once you have confirmed that it is safe to explore the flooded area, you can then move on to step two, identifying the source of the water.

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Step 2: Identify the Source

It is not always easy to identify the source of water in a basement. There are multiple causes of water from broken pipes, to sewer backups, to rain water leaking in from windows and doors. If possible try to find the source of your water issue. Check around the windows and doors to see if they are damp. If not follow the trail of water. You may see a trail of water running down your walls around your home’s plumbing and sewage pipes, this could mean that you have a plumbing issue. Or does the water appear to be coming in from your foundation or up through the basement floor? Do the best you can to identify the problem in order to know what type of professional to call such as a plumber or a basement waterproofing service.

Step 3: Contact a Professional

Now it is time to call a professional. If you believe that the leak is due to a plumbing problem, you will need to call a plumber. But if the flood is bad enough that it may have caused damage to your things and you need a significant cleanup, you will need to contact a restoration contractor as well. For any non-plumbing related flooding, contact a basement waterproofing service. A basement waterproofing service will not only assist with your current problem, but also prevent further issues down the road.

Step 4: Prevent Future Problems

A basement waterproofing contractor can correctly identify the cause of your flood and provide several preventative maintenance solutions. They can also assist with foundation repair both to stabilize any bowing foundation walls due to continual water seepage over time that and prevent leaks in the future by installing an internal French drain system and sump pump. There are also wall treatment and dehumidifier options that can assist with maintaining safe air quality and moisture levels, preventing mold growth and musty smells from your basement long term.

Advanced Basement Solutions has several locations throughout the Pittsburgh area to serve you. Call us today, we are here to help!