When you need disaster repair services in Atlanta, you may wish you had taken steps to prevent the disaster from occurring in the first place. One disaster that doesn’t have to happen in your home is basement water damage. Leaks are one of the most common causes of water damage in basements. But you don’t have to experience this. Here are three steps you can take today to prevent leaks in your basement.
1. Keep Gutters Clear
You might not think that something so high up like house gutters could impact a basement, but they can. Clogged gutters can’t properly guide rainwater away from your house. Instead, the water can flow straight down the sides of your house, pooling around your foundation and basement windows. Keep gutters clear of leaves and other debris to ensure they are operating at peak efficiency. You should clean your gutters at least once a month during fall and windy seasons.
2. Adjust the Grade
The land around your house may be pitched at such an angle that water flows toward your foundation instead of away. If this is the case on your property, have a landscaper adjust the grade. The surrounding soil should slope away from your house by a minimum of ¼ inch per foot.
Your outdoor contractor can ensure the measurements are correct.
3. Manage Tree Roots
Certain species of trees, such as silver maples, have aggressive root growth that can compromise your home’s foundation. Make sure that any large trees are planted at least 20 feet away from your home. Smaller trees, like white firs, are safely rooted at a distance of between 10 and 15 feet away from your house.
These three steps can help to prevent leaks from happening in your basement. For more advice about preventing leaks and other home disasters, contact us today. We’re here to help.
