Oh No, a Flooded Basement! Here’s How to Fix It

8/16/2018 (Permalink)

A sump pump will help remove water from your Slidell basement incase of flooding

A basement flood is nerve-wracking and can seriously damage your home’s foundation. The basement is also often a main attraction for homeowners and their families to spend time in. While it might seem like the end of the world, you can fix a flooded basement.

You will need the following tools:

? A submersible pump with a generator
? An extension cord
? Nylon rope
? A garden or sump hose

1. Shut Off Electricity and Gas

Never enter a flooded basement, due to the risk of electrocution. If the service panel or circuit breaker is not located in the basement, go ahead and turn it off. Otherwise, call an electrician.

2. Determine the Cause of the Flood

This step can help avoid another basement flood. A plumber can fix a burst pipe; water stop cement fixes leaks in the walls; unclogging and rinsing gutters and downspouts prevents overflow, and some sort of drainage system helps prevent drain and storm sewer backups.

3. Get the Water Out

Secure the pump with rope and lower it down from the stairs above. Two pumps at the same time can remove the water even faster. Follow these steps to pump out the water:

? Attach the extension cord to the pump cord.
? Wrap the cords around something up high to keep them from getting wet.
? Attach a garden or sump hose to the top of the pump.
? Position the end of the hose away from the house to drain into a gutter or storm sewer.
? Tie the rope around the top of the pump and lower it into the basement.
? Start the generator and plug the extension cord into it to start the pump.

4. Talk to Professionals

Ask about insurance coverage. Keep in mind that any electrical or gas items probably cannot be salvaged. However, restoration professionals offer cleaning and drying services to help you cut down on replacing damaged items.

A basement flood in Slidell, LA, can be devastating, but it doesn’t have to ruin your home. By following these steps, you can get your basement back into shape.

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