How to Prevent Crawlspace Flooding
4/25/2022 (Permalink)
Crawlspace flooding can cause serious damage to your home and understanding how to prevent it is key to avoiding the costly repairs associated with type of water damage. For most homeowners the crawlspace is not an area of the home that often visited or even thought about. The common assertion is that the crawlspace is a dark cobweb filled cavernous, and creepy place that is to be avoided or left for a repairman to go inside for the sole purpose of fixing piping or an air handler.
However, the crawlspace requires attention on a more regular basis to assure that it is dry in order to protect electrical components such as the air handler unit of the heating and ac unit, prevent mold growth and preserve the structural integrity of the foundation.
During periods of heavy rains crawlspace flooding can occur. Several reasons for this are:
- Clogged gutters. If the gutter system on the home or building the large volume of water in an intense rainstorm will cause the water to overflow and water will collect along the foundation and lead to crawlspace flooding. To prevent this, have gutter guards installed or clean the gutters on a regular basis.
- Improper landscaping: If the landscaping of the home fails to divert water away from the structure, flooding is likely to occur. A great solution is to have a landscaping company install a French drain system and make sure that the lot is properly graded,
- Have a home inspection to check pipes that run along the floor joists for leaks. If any are found, have them immediately repaired.
- Install a sump pump: A sump pump is a valuable tool that will pump water out the crawlspace, upon detection, keeping your crawlspace flood free.
If you have a storm flooded crawlspace call SERVPRO of Orange County at (919)245-0788 for extraction and drying. We make it like it never even happened.