TIPS FOR PROTECTING YOUR BASEMENT
The ground immediately surrounding your basement is called the excavation overdig. This space is required for the forming of the concrete walls of your foundation.
Soil ends up being loose around the perimeter of the foundation. Because of a lesser density, it tends to become saturated with water. When water falls directly from the roof to the immediate perimeter of the house, it drains faster to the walls and footers of your basement.
Divert water from the roof and surrounding areas of the foundation whenever possible. One way to do it is by installing gutters and a drainage system that diverts water away from the foundation.
An appropriate gutter system will help direct roof water to a suitable location. Gutters can be optimized by the use of extensions to divert the drainage beyond the excavation overdig whenever possible.
Gutters kept in good repair and clean of debris are of great help.
Periodically walk around the house and visually inspect the condition of the grading away from the wall, if necessary, use a water hose.
After a good rainfall, step outside to inspect if there are places where the water is pooling. Think how to adjust the grade to ensure water runs away from the overdig area.
All paved and concrete surfaces should slope away from the home. If there are large cracks or openings, it is better to seal them to prevent water from pooling underneath these surfaces.
Equipment maintenance and prevention.
Sump Pumps
Must be of a professional grade and become more reliable with a battery backup system. They also can be equipped to send a message to your phone in case of malfunction.
If you are experiencing very high humidity in the basement during summer months, install a professional grade dehumidifier and set it at 50% relative humidity to maintain a comfortable and healthy environment.
Any leaks or condensation from HVAC equipment should be disposed of properly to drain away from the foundation.