Winter months in the UK can bring variable weather conditions to say the least. One minute we can be basking in balmy autumnal days, the next sheltering from wind, rain and hail.
Whether your commercial premises or home have a basement, wet and cold weather can often bring with it the risk of flooding.
At Vinci Response, we are experts at dealing with the aftermath of basement floods.
But in this blog, we want to look at some preventative measures everyone can take to ensure their basements are best protected.
Is a Flooded Basement Dangerous?
Firstly, let’s look at the potential dangers that can arise from a flooded basement.
Perhaps one of the most serious concerns is the risk of structural damage.
If your building’s masonry fails or the structural integrity of your building is compromised, this can lead to some serious problems. Walls could collapse, foundations could crack. Needless to say, not only could these issues prof very costly to fix, but they could also endanger the health and safety of anyone on site.
In addition to structural concerns, flooded basements could also lead to serious issues concerning damp. Left unchecked, damp can create the ideal breeding grounds for mould and dry rot, which can obviously wreak havoc in your home if not dealt with. You can read more about the dangers of mould here.
How To Protect Your Basement From Flooding
Now that we know the biggest potential dangers of flooded basements, let’s examine the top 5 preventative measures that can be taken to ensure risks are kept to a minimum.
Wall cracks
Wall cracks can be the most obvious sign of potential future flooding in basements. Most of the time, harmless hairline cracks will appear on internal walls rom time to time. But if you start seeing larger crevices start to appear, it would be prudent to investigate. Basements need to be well sealed and not only could cracks let in water, they could also be signs of serious structural issues.
Blocked drains
Blockages can develop quickly. Left untreated, they can quickly cause potential flooding issues. If you are concerned about your drains, it’s definitely worth calling in professional help to remove any blockages as soon as possible.
Blocked gutters
Blocked gutters can cause just as high a risk to basements. They should be kept clear of any waste or debris which – during winter months – can be tricky. Leaves and moss can often build up and cause blockages. If water can’t fall away from the building, it will likely collect around the bottom of the property. This will cause you issues if you have a basement. Where possible, it’s recommended to clean your gutters twice a year
Poorly placed downspouts
We’ve talked about blocked drains and gutters, but it’s also worth keeping an eye on your downspouts. They need to connect with main drainage or a soakaway, to ensure that water flows away from a property. If they become dislodged or water is seen just pouring out onto the ground, then it would be wise to amend.
Worried About Your Basement Flooding? Contact Vinci Response Today
If you are worried about your basement flooding – or need your flooded basement cleared of water and restored – contact Vinci Response today.
Our basement flooding experts will be able to resolve any problem promptly and professionally.
Find out more about our basement flooding services and then contact us on 0808 506 7506.
Alternatively, you can email [email protected] and a member of our team will get back to you shortly.
