Water damage is one of leading causes of insurance claims and is responsible for millions of dollars in damages every year. One of the most common sources of water damage is water leakage in a basement. In addition to the possibility of structural damage, basement water damage can destroy interior finishes as well as creating an ideal environment for the growth of toxic mold. If you should experience water damage in your basement, here are some key steps to follow. If the event of water damage, the most important factor is the basement water removal. Before you can begin any basement water damage repair, all standing water must be completely removed. Once the standing water has been removed, it’s important to determine the source of the leak so that it can be prevented in the future. With basement water leaks, the cause is usually either an indoor problem such as leaking pipes or appliances, or caused by exterior flooding such as in the case of storms, clogged sewers, or flooding from nearby bodies of water. After determining the cause of the leakage, it’s time to move on to the basement water damage repair. When it comes to how to fix water damage in basement, the repairs will often be as simple as patching cracked foundations or replacing leaking or rusted gutters. In some cases, condensation from interior plumbing may be contributing to the basement water damage. In cases such as those, wrapping the pipes with insulation will minimize the potential for condensation as well as any residual dripping. Another common source of basement water is plant and shrub overgrowth which is allowing water to penetrate close to the house by following the plant root systems. This problem can be solved by pruning shrubs so that they do not allow water to pool against the foundation of the home. Once the cause of the basement water damage has been repaired, it should be periodically inspected to make sure that the basement continues to remain dry. Watch for signs of excessive moisture such as condensation around pipes or windows, or water stains on ceilings or walls. If you spot any of these telltale signs, take action right away to prevent further damage. Â
