Basements are very crucial components of any structure, whether
they are finished or not, basements should be protected from flooding
and all other types of water intrusion (seepage, sewer backup). The
walls and floors of a basement are the foundation for a home. In many
cases, even in basements that are not finished, basements are sometimes
utilized for housing the essential mechanicals for a structure (hvac
equipment, electrical components, plumbing, hot water heaters,
washers/dryers, etc.). During flooding situations water can enter
basements a number of ways. It can be through windows, doors, or other
openings to the basement. It can come through sewer/floor drains. It
can also come from inundation when a structure is surrounded by water.
When a home is surrounded by water, hydrostatic pressure can compromise
the walls.
Things to do to prevent flooding/damage in a basement:
- Raise all plumbing in the structure
- Do not finish basements that are susceptible to flooding
- In basements that are subject to flooding, elevate all mechanicals and anything that can be damaged by water inundation