How to Prevent Water Damage from the Spring Thaw

3/5/2021 (Permalink)

Winter Thaw

As the weather warms, the spring thaw nears closer. Each year, this can pose a threat to homes if proper spring flooding preventative measures aren’t taken, and you’ll want to be sure to take proper actions to prevent home water damage.

Before the spring thaw comes around, be sure to take proper measures to prepare the outside and inside of your home.

Outside Your Home

Clear Ice and Snow around Your House

Clearing three feet of ice and snow from around the sides of your home can prevent water from getting into your home’s foundation. Not only can it protect your foundation, but it can keep water from getting into your basement.

Clear Out Gutters

Although there won’t be any leaves to clear out of your gutters, it’s still smart to clean them out to prevent ice and snow buildup. Your gutters have an important role during the spring thaw: if your gutters are blocked by ice or snow, the gutter water can overflow and cause home water damage.

Inside Your Home

Consider a Sump Pump for Your Basement

Basements are prone to spring flooding, which is why it’s worth considering installing a sump pump if you do not already have one.

Sump pumps that have a battery backup will kick on, pumping water out even if a winter storm causes a power outage. They’re also an excellent preventative measure for spring-thaw flooding.

Unplug & Move Appliances in Your Basement

If you have a refrigerator, laundry machines, or other appliances in the basement of your home, they can pose an incredible threat during a flood.

To protect your appliances and your home from electrically charged water, be sure to unplug all appliances and electronics in your basement during the spring thaw.

Aside from unplugging them, move any appliances and electronics that you can carry out of the basement during spring flooding season. If appliances are too big or heavy to carry upstairs, try elevating them on cement or wood to protect them from floodwaters.

Consider Installing Backwater Valves

Where spring-thaw floods are concerning, you should consider having backwater valves to protect your basement and home from sewage flooding.

If a main swerve backup happens, backwater, or backflow, valves will automatically close to protect your home from flooding. They can be installed in your basement sewer connections to prevent further home water damage.

Home Water Damage Restoration from SERVPRO

Even with your best efforts and preventative measures, home flooding can still happen. At SERVPRO, we can help with home water damage! Our team is eager to assist you, so feel free to contact us to discuss any damage or restoration you may need.