Summertime in Michigan typically means high temperatures and lots of sunshine, but the Troy area can also receive some surprisingly violent summer thunderstorms. As you finish your spring cleaning this year, take some time to ensure your basement is safe from flooding. A little bit of preparation can go a long way toward saving you from expensive water damage.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Cleaning your gutters should be a regular part of your home maintenance routine, but how often do you check the hardware of your gutter and downspout system? Do you know where your downspouts drain, and how efficiently they can move water away from your home? One of the most common causes of basement flooding is a damaged gutter and downspout system that allows water to drain right next to the home, eventually saturating the ground around the foundation until water starts leaking into the basement level. Make sure your gutters and downspouts are in good condition and that the downspouts drain as far away from your house as possible.
Have Your Foundation Inspected
Small cracks in your home’s foundation can become big problems after heavy storms. Before the storm season hits, consider hiring a professional to inspect your basement and foundation and patch any worrisome cracks. This can go a long way toward preventing a basement flood.
Arrange Sump Pump Maintenance
If your sump pump fails, you are all but guaranteed to have some type of basement flooding as a result. Check your sump pump regularly and always do an additional check before a heavy storm arrives. Make sure it’s plugged in and functioning properly, and if you have any concerns about whether it can handle keeping your basement dry when the next storm hits, Birmingham Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can help.
Trust the Professionals
The team at Birmingham Plumbing, Heating & Cooling can help you prepare your home in the Troy, MI, area. Whether you need sump pump maintenance, a new sump pump installed, recommendations for preventing floods from the outside of your home, or sewer line clearing, we can help. Contact us today to find out how we can help you prevent summertime basement flooding.
