It has become almost impossible to overlook the way global warming is affecting our everyday lives. Climate change has become a veritable reality, and our houses don’t like it any more than we do. 

The US EPA reports that many areas in America have been facing much more yearly precipitation – an undeniable indicator of climate change. Last year, Hurricane Helene ravaged many neighborhoods in the US. Several parts of Greenville in South Carolina received unrelenting rainfall, causing flooding and extensive damage to life and property.

Under such circumstances, homeowners must take proactive steps to prevent water damage. Basement flooding is a rampant problem in heavy rainfall, building up to hefty repair costs. We recommend the below actions to safeguard your basement from damage in severely wet weather.

Schedule a Gutter Inspection and Repair

Damaged gutters are a prime cause of basement flooding since they allow rainwater to seep through. Over time, they can cause foundational issues in your house, blowing up your household budget. Sometimes, gutters can get clogged due to debris, preventing them from working optimally.

We advise scheduling a gutter inspection twice a year based on your location. High-precipitation regions may warrant a more frequent examination. For example, professional gutter repair in Greenville, SC, can help homeowners know about cracks and leaks. Since this area receives substantial precipitation, periodic inspections can identify potential problems early.

Homes in such regions can also benefit from gutter covers and micro-mesh guards to keep rainwater out. It is crucial to pick good-quality materials for covers to extend their lifespan. Moreover, you don’t need to clean covered gutters as frequently as regular ones. It saves you maintenance costs and time.

You may conduct inspections and repairs if you are handy and have the required expertise. However, beware that DIY projects can often be cumbersome. It may also void warranties on materials and labor. A professional will have specialized equipment to do the job faster and more reliably.

Install Strategic Downspouts

Downspouts can be very helpful for houses that must withstand substantial rain. These pipes can transport rainwater from a gutter and direct it far from the establishment. So, if you position downspouts strategically, you can keep water far from your home’s foundation. 

On the other hand, ill-positioned or missing downspouts can cause water to collect near the base. Eventually, the water seeps into the basement, compromising your building’s structural integrity. It also leads to mold and rotting. Getting rid of rot can be a mega budget-hogger in home repair.

Financially, it makes sense to include downspouts in your rain-preparation plan. SureFlow Gutters notes that downspouts promote rainwater diversion if they are suitably aligned. You can always explore customized solutions for styles and colors to complement your aesthetic.

Consider Getting a Sump Pump

In June 2024, London residents were experiencing a regular day until freak flash floods disrupted everything. CBC reported that multiple basements were flooded in the aftermath, ruining all the good furniture and cozy items people tend to store there.

Enter: a sump pump. This incredible device can help remove the accumulated water in such situations. It works by detecting elevated water levels. Then, it moves the excess water outside through a discharge pipe. As a result, you’re saved from excessive water building up in your basement. It also avoids the need to wade in knee-deep pools and attempt to clear things yourself!

You can choose a sump pump based on the probability of flooding in your neighborhood. For example, you may find that a battery-powered one has adequate power to handle excessive water accumulation in your locality. A professional can help you find the ideal fit for your home so you don’t spend too much on horsepower you don’t need.

Is Protecting Against Basement Flooding Urgent?

In a commercial era, it can seem that everything is urgent – or so the service providers claim. However, equipping our houses for inclement weather is indeed pressing. As climate change grips the world tighter, protecting against consequences like heavy rainfall and storms has become imperative. 

Water damage can be harsh for any building, no matter how well-built. The basement is susceptible to water damage due to its location, making it vulnerable to seepage from cracks in the foundation. A flooded basement also risks your personal items, mainly because many use this space for hobbies and relaxation.

Moreover, homeowners insurance doesn’t typically include flood damage. CNBC reports that residents need a separate flood insurance policy, which will also not cover most personal items.

In addition to weakening your home’s structural strength, damaged basements can create health issues due to mold growth. People with allergies and lung conditions may suffer the most. Until you remove the mold, those with a weakened immune system may be compromised. 

Further, you may also face problems with electricity if the basement has panels. Many residential buildings have paneling in the basement since it is accessible but protected from the main living quarters.

Suffice it to say that putting off home repairs will prove more expensive in the long run. It is a classic case of administering that all-important stitch in time.