Common Causes Of Water Damage And The Cleanup Process

Because basements are, by definition, the lowest level of a building and typically built below ground level, they are inherently prone to flooding. Water damage in your basement in White Plains NY can be caused by a number of different reasons. From our water damage cleanup experts, here are a few of the most common causes you should be aware of: 

Water Damage Cleanup In White Plains NY

1. Poor foundation drainage

Because water is in the ground surrounding the foundation of your home, there must be a foundation drainage system in place. Whether initiated by a pump or designed to work with the laws of gravity, the foundation drainage system around your home works to keep the ground water level around the foundation lower than the basement floor. Gravity foundation systems (often referred to as the weeping tile system) drain water in the ground and channel it away from the basement. Over time, the pipes may get obstructed by sediment or begin to degrade, hindering drainage and allowing water to build up around the foundation. Homes that utilize a sump pump to redirect water away from the home rely on these devices to keep water at bay. Sump pump failure, or pump overload during heavy rainfall, will cause water to build up around the foundation and work its way into the basement. Any time there is poor foundation drainage or drainage failure, your basement will likely end up with flood damage.

2. Hot water tank failure

The hot water tank is designed to constantly fill and refill itself, so that there is always a supply of hot water. As sediment and rust build up over time, the tank that houses the water supply can begin to corrode inside. With any increase in pressure, the strain can spring leaks in the tank. When there is a leak in the water tank, the flow of water is endless because of the appliance’s design to constantly keep itself full. Without proper care, regular inspection, and routine maintenance, the hot water tank will be even more susceptible to leaks. Hot water tank failure is a very common culprit of basement flood damage and can lead to costly water damage cleanup. 

3. Sewer backup

When a blockage occurs in a sewer line, or the system gets overloaded during heavy rains, sewage can backup and flood into the basement. When flow is restricted in sewer lines, it will take the path of least resistance. Blockages restrict flow, which leads to sewage back up that could end up flooding into the basement. When the pipe system is full and the water levels in the manholes rise above the top of the pipes from excess water, the sewage level in the system could exceed that of your basement, which means that the flow is blocked, so sewage is directed towards your home instead of away from it. If this happens, sewage water can flood into your home by way of the lowest fixture, which is usually a floor or shower drain. 

Water damage cleanup in the basement, no matter the cause, needs to be handled right away. Being aware of potential flood hazards in your basement can help you be more proactive and responsive if water damage does occur. If you find yourself dealing with water damage in your basement, or anywhere else in your home, the water damage cleanup experts at Maxon’s are available to handle the water damage entire cleanup process for you.