A musty odour coming from the basement? Faint water stains making their way up the foundation walls? The thought of a heavy storm and having to wade through ankle-deep water is on your mind?
You would not be alone in any of that. We at United Water Restoration Group of Hickory are no strangers to helping homeowners in Hickory, NC with water damage; we do it every day and can tell you a flooded basement seldom comes out of the blue. Should you be in trouble already, give us a ring at (704)-396-5381. Otherwise, read on for what to watch for before things get out of hand.
For the most part a basement will offer some clues well in advance of a flood. It is a matter of recognising them and being quick to act.
Why Your Basement Floods
Being below ground puts your basement at the lowest point of the home where water is apt to collect. A sump pump that gives out, gutters that do their job poorly or soil around the foundation that is too saturated will all direct water inside. And it does not take long for water to make its way in once it has started. Hence the importance of heeding the early warnings.
Signs Not to Overlook
Any given flood will put up a few red flags, sometimes weeks or months ahead of time. Here are some of the more usual ones:
- An odour of dampness or mustiness that will not go away
- Discoloration or staining on the floors and foundation
- Efflorescence from evaporating water in the form of a white chalky deposit
- Cracks in the floor, wall or foundation which appear to be getting worse
- Wood that has warped close to the floor, paint peeling or drywall bubbling
- After a rain, water pooling by the exterior of the foundation
- Unusual noises from the sump pump or one that is always running
Some homeowners put these off thinking they can wait, but that is how minor issues become costly.
The Sump Pump
In many ways your sump pump is the first line of defence and it will let you know if it is on its last legs. Grinding, rattling, rapid cycling or nonstop operation are all cause for concern. Put it to the test now and then with a bucket of water in the pit; if the pump does not come on and do its job in short order, you may need to have it replaced or fixed. A backup power source is also a must since the very storms that bring flooding have a way of taking out the power as well.
Gutters and Grading
More often than you might think the problem originates outside. If the gutters are clogged the rainwater goes straight down the foundation. Or the grading could be such that the land slopes in towards your home instead of away from it, leaving you with a pool of water right where you do not want it. Go for a look after the next rainfall for any standing water or downspouts discharging too near the walls. A little attention here is an easy way to stave off major damage.
Interior Indicators
There is much to be had from looking about the interior of the basement. Humidity, condensation on the windows and damp in the corners are all telling you there is moisture present. Pay particular heed to cracks. A hairline one is nothing to fret over but if it is widening or follows a stair-step in the block work, or is letting water in, it needs to be looked at.
When You See the Signs
Act on it. Get the gutters and sump pump in order, see to the grading. But for water, mold or staining you are better off calling in a pro.
United Water Restoration Group of Hickory is at the service of homeowners in Hickory, NC round the clock; water damage is not going to respect business hours. We are fully licensed and insured and stand behind our work with a 100% satisfaction guarantee, whether you need a minor cleanup or full flooded basement restoration. Our 4.9 star rating on Google from more than 125 reviews speaks to the trust our neighbours place in us.
There is no sense in letting a warning sign turn into a flooded basement. For a free estimate and some peace of mind, contact United Water Restoration Group of Hickory at (704)-396-5381 and let us put your mind at ease.