The short answer
Manage Exterior Drainage
Proper grading is the first line of defense against basement flooding. The ground around your home should slope away from the foundation for at least six feet. This directs rainwater and snowmelt away from your basement walls instead of pooling against them. You can build up soil or install landscaping to create the necessary slope.
Clean gutters and downspouts are essential for managing roof runoff. Gutters clogged with leaves send water cascading down your siding and pooling at the foundation. Ensure downspouts extend at least five to ten feet away from your house, discharging water onto a sloped surface or into a drainage channel. Check these systems after seasonal storms.
Seal Foundation Cracks and Wall Leaks
Water finds its way through the smallest openings. Inspect your basement walls and floor regularly for cracks, gaps, or signs of seepage. These can develop over time due to settling or hydrostatic pressure from wet soil. Sealing these points with hydraulic cement or specialized waterproofing sealant from the inside can block a common entry path for water.
For more persistent seepage through concrete block or porous walls, interior waterproofing coatings may be necessary. These products are painted or rolled onto clean, dry walls to create a moisture barrier. Remember, interior sealants manage water that has already penetrated the wall, directing it to a drainage system, but they do not fix the external water pressure causing the problem.
- Inspect walls and floors annually for new cracks or efflorescence.
- Clean cracks thoroughly before applying any sealant for a good bond.
- Use hydraulic cement for active leaks or cracks under pressure.
- Apply epoxy injections for structural cracks in poured concrete.
- Consider exterior waterproofing membrane for major, recurring issues.
- Install interior drain tile to collect and redirect seepage water.
Install and Maintain a Sump Pump
A sump pump is a critical piece of equipment for a dry basement. It sits in a pit dug into the lowest point of your basement floor. When groundwater rises, it flows into the pit, and the pump activates to eject the water away from your home through a discharge pipe. This system relieves hydrostatic pressure under your foundation slab.
Protect Against Plumbing Failures
Not all basement water comes from outside. Internal plumbing leaks and failures are a common cause of flooding. Know the location of your main water shutoff valve and ensure everyone in the household can operate it. This allows you to stop the flow instantly if a pipe bursts. Insulating pipes in unheated basement areas can prevent freezing and bursting in cold weather.
Regularly inspect appliances like your water heater, washing machine, and HVAC units for signs of corrosion or leaks. Replace washing machine hoses every five years, as rubber hoses degrade and can fail without warning. Consider installing water leak detectors near these appliances and in other high-risk areas. These devices can alert you to a small leak before it causes major damage.
What to Do If Water Gets In
Despite your best efforts, flooding can still occur during extreme weather. If water enters your basement, safety is the priority. Do not enter if there is standing water and the electricity is still on. Shut off the power at the main breaker if it is safe to do so. Then, remove as much water as you can safely manage to prevent further damage.
For significant flooding, your next step is to contact local water damage pros. They have industrial-grade equipment for extraction, drying, and cleaning to prevent mold and structural damage. Acting quickly is important to limit the damage. You should also document the damage for your insurance company by taking photos and making a list. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
- Never enter a flooded basement with live electricity.
- Shut off the main water valve if the source is a burst pipe.
- Move valuable or sentimental items to a dry area if safe.
- Begin removing water with a wet-dry vacuum or pump.
- Increase ventilation by opening windows and using fans.
- Contact a plumber to fix the source if it is a plumbing failure.
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Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
How much does basement waterproofing cost?
Costs vary widely depending on the solution. Simple crack sealing might cost a few hundred dollars, while installing an interior drainage system and sump pump often ranges from several thousand to over ten thousand dollars. The final price depends on your basement's size, the extent of the problem, and local labor rates.
Can I waterproof my basement myself?
Some tasks, like cleaning gutters, extending downspouts, or applying interior sealant to small cracks, are doable for a homeowner. However, major work like correcting foundation grading, installing exterior membranes, or putting in a sump pump system often requires specialized tools and knowledge. For complex or structural issues, consulting a foundation professional is wise.
Will these steps help with sewer backup?
The steps above guard against surface water and groundwater. They do not protect against sewer backup, which happens when the municipal sewer line is overloaded. To prevent that, you need a specific device called a backwater valve installed on your main sewer line. A plumber can assess your home's need for one.