With winter right around the corner, we know many of you are fearing what Michigan has in store for us this year. Last winter, Tom’s Basement Waterproofing prepared for the aftermath of heavy snow, with flooded basements in the spring. However, there are some precautions that you can take now, to prevent your basement from becoming a mess this winter and spring. Take advantage of the cooler weather and follow these steps to dryer day’s ahead!
- Clean the gutters: The changing of Michigan leaves is the perk to a northern fall, but can wreak havoc on your basement and home. After the leaves have fallen around your home, clean the gutters for any remaining leaves or debris, keeping them clear for winter and spring.
- Check your soil: Now is the time to check around your home to see if the soil and grade of the earth around your abode is pitched away from your house. When the soil slopes down towards your home, your basement is more susceptible to leaks and flood damage. If you do notice some spots that move in the wrong direction, add some soil to give it lift.
- Check the trees: Larger trees that offer shade for your home in the summer months are great, but can be damaging to the foundation of your home over time. These robust trees should be planted at least 20 feet away from your home, where as smaller trees can be as close as 10 feet away.
- Move the downspouts: Are the downspouts around your house far enough away to move water elsewhere? If you notice that they are not pushed out and away from your house, to create a runoff, look into getting extensions for these areas.
- Test conditions in the rain: The next time it rains, take a walk around your house. Do you see any pooling water? This will be the best time to check if there are some potential problem areas in and around your home.
- Install a generator: If you have electrical well pumps, septic tank pumps, or a sump pump, you may want to look into an alternative generation for power, in case of an outage. Frozen water pipes are a nightmare for homeowners, which is why we suggest alternative power routes in case your power does flicker out.
- Install a backup sump pump: While sump pumps have been designed to eliminate basement flooding, they are still prone to failing. Look into installing a second sump pump for additional coverage, protection, and peace of mind.