Suites, permits & entrances
What to do when your basement floods.
When you experience a flood in your basement, it's important to also consider your exterior walls—especially if the flood resulted from external water intrusion like heavy rains or groundwater. Here’s what you should do with your exterior walls:
Inspect the Exterior Foundation Walls After the water recedes:Look for cracks, bulging, or discoloration in the foundation.Check for signs of efflorescence (white, powdery residue), which indicates moisture seepage.Examine mortar joints and brick/block integrity (if applicable).
Repair Any Damage If damage is found:Seal cracks with hydraulic cement or polyurethane caulk.For significant structural issues, call a structural engineer or foundation specialist.
Improve Drainage Around the Foundation Flooding often stems from poor drainage. Consider Regrading soil so it slopes away from the house (6" drop over 10 feet).Cleaning or repairing gutters and downspouts to ensure they direct water at least 5–10 feet away from your foundation.Installing or upgrading a French drain or footing drain.
Apply Waterproofing Treatments Use exterior waterproofing membranes (like elastomeric coatings).Apply liquid rubber or asphalt-based waterproof coatings.Consider drainage boards or panels that channel water down to a footing drain.
Check for Mold and Mildew If moisture has penetrated the walls: Mold may grow behind siding, stucco, or brick veneers.A moisture meter can help check saturation levels.Remove siding to inspect further if needed.
Clean and Disinfect If the flood involved contaminated water:Pressure wash and disinfect affected exterior surfaces.Use a diluted bleach solution (1 cup bleach to 1 gallon water) for hard surfaces, or commercial cleaners designed for mildew and mold.
Prevent Future Flooding Consider installing a sump pump with a backup battery.Use a vapor barrier on basement interior walls.If flooding is a recurring issue, evaluate the need for a retaining wall, swales, or a dry well system.