Basement flooding can be a complete nightmare for homeowners across Ontario. Without quick intervention, basement flooding can cause water damage, mold growth, and even draw bugs that are attracted to moisture, such as house centipedes.
Cambridge, Ontario has been at the heart of several heavy rainstorms these past few months, and we’ve gotten many calls this season from people looking for drainage services to prevent basement flooding. Basements are especially susceptible to flooding, which is why homeowners need to know how to prevent basement flooding from heavy rain.
Keep reading and learn the preventative measures to take when your basement is constantly taking the toll of Ontario’s heavy rain season.
Why Does The Basement Always Flood?
Generally, basements are more prone to flooding than any other area of your home. That’s because basements are always partially or completely below ground level, making it vulnerable to groundwater (water that can be found below the ground’s surface), and sewers which carry water underground. Additionally, gravity will cause any amount of water to travel from above ground level to below ground level eventually.
Excessive rain makes groundwater levels rise, putting more pressure on the foundation of your home, specifically the basement. While your yard may have drainage points to prevent this, it might not always be enough for the heavy rain season. Any weaknesses in the home’s foundation and drainage will allow water to seep in if there’s enough of it, and your basement will almost always take the brunt of it.
How to Prevent Basement Flooding From Heavy Rain in Cambridge
Since your basement is naturally susceptible to water, the best way to prevent basement flooding from heavy rain is by improving your home’s exterior drainage. Improving the drainage will help make the rain water drain away from your home before it can get into the basement.
We usually recommend a backyard French Drain to our clients utilizing our drainage services.
What is a French Drain and How Does it Work?
A french drain is a simple exterior drainage technique. We create a trench in the areas of your backyard most prone to water build-up, and install a perforated pipe that’s wrapped in a water-permeable material. Then we cover part of the pipe with stone or gravel — with the end of the pipe pointing towards where we’d want the water to go (away from your home).
Water will travel into the trench whenever it rains, and the perforated pipe will catch the water as it rises and redirect it away from your home, preventing any flooding in your backyard or basement.
Prevent Basement Flooding Now: Contact Cambridge's Top French Drain Specialists
Don’t wait for the next heavy rain storm. If you live in Cambridge, Kitchener, Paris, or North Dumfries — protect your home and prevent basement flooding today by contacting Cambridge’s trusted french drain specialists.
Frequently Asked Questions about Basement Flooding in Cambridge
Will an exterior French drain prevent water in the basement?
Yes, an exterior french drain is very effective at preventing water from coming in the basement. The pipe within the french drain is designed to direct water away from your basement, preventing the build-up of hydrostatic pressure (groundwater that builds up around your home’s foundation).
Why does water come up through my basement floor when it rains?
Since the basement is under ground level, it is in constant hydrostatic pressure when rain water eventually travels below ground level. The soil surrounding the basement, below ground level, becomes wet during heavy rain showers.
Over time, groundwater under your home will cause the foundation to become weaker. Any cracks or weaknesses in your home’s underground foundation will allow water to escape into the basement.