It’s snowing outside. You’ve seen recent water issues in your basement. Can snow make water problems worse?
Snow related water problems in basements are more common than most people think. Here is what can happen. As the snow melts, it creates a significant amount of water that needs to go somewhere. If your home lacks proper drainage or waterproofing, this meltwater can find its way into your basement through various pathways:
- Cracks in foundation walls: Even small cracks can allow water to seep in, especially under pressure from the melting snow.
- Window wells: If your basement windows don’t have proper drainage or if they become clogged with snow, water can back up and seep into the basement.
- Sewer system backups: Heavy snowfall can overwhelm sewer systems, leading to backups and potential overflow into basements.
- Rising water table: In some areas, melting snow can raise the water table, pushing groundwater up and potentially into basements.
The key to handling snow related water problems is prevention. Here is how to be proactive:
- Seal any cracks in your foundation walls.
- Ensure proper drainage around your home, including downspouts and window wells.
- Clean gutters regularly to prevent blockages.
- Install a sump pump to remove excess water from the basement.
- Consider waterproofing your basement walls and floor.
If you think you have a snow related water problem, contact the basement waterproofing professionals at Best Buy Waterproofing. We’ll come out and inspect your basement. If everything looks okay, we will let you know. If there are any significant water issues, we will find them and recommend the best solution for resolving the issue.
