Why do Basements Flood in Spring?

Although basements can flood at just about any time, it seems to happen most often in the spring. What's happening here? What can a professional water damage restoration company do for you if your house does flood?

How Do Basements Flood?

The simple answer is, basements flood when water drains improperly or pipes become damaged. This happens for a wide variety of reasons including:

• Pipes freezing, cracking, and thawing out, leading to leaks.
• The water tank or your pipes corroding due to age.
• Improperly installed pipes separating at the joints.
• Appliances in the basement bathroom overflowing.
• Pipes breaking as the house settles or the foundation shifts over time.
• Sewage backing up instead of flowing through the pipes properly.
• Groundwater draining into the basement instead of away from the home due to drainage issues.
• Water entering the basement through compromised water sealing features.

Technically, any floor might flood if a pipe fails and the ground floor might get wet from heavy rains. However, basements are the most likely area to experience flooding. Water sinks and basements are set in the ground. Put the two together and you may experience trouble in any season, but especially in the spring.

Why Flood in the Spring?

Spring is the time when the ground thaws, and it brings a hefty dose of showers as well. Both of these can add up to flooding issues. Here's what can happen:

• If your pipes weren't properly installed and insulated, they're vulnerable to freezing in the winter. Rising spring temperatures can make those leaks obvious, fast.
• Your rain drainage system including downspouts may have gotten wear and tear over winter and now the rainwater isn't being directed where it should be.
• The oversaturated ground can put more pressure on your basement's waterproofing. Any errors in waterproofing installation may become obvious.
• Temperature shifts may have caused basement window frames to warp and flex. Water could leak in through the resulting gaps.

Has Your Basement Flooded?

Water can damage your basement's walls, floors, and furniture. If the moisture is not completely removed, it may lead to dangerous mold growth. That's why you need to get this mess cleaned up quickly and thoroughly. Utah Flood Cleanup has years of experience getting homes back into shape during difficult times. We offer 24-hour emergency service so you can give us a call at (801) 876-5225 for a free consultation.

Author Statement:
Josh Ray is a disaster cleanup professional and the owner of Utah Flood Cleanup. He is a certified mold professional, asbestos inspector, water damage IICRC carpet cleaning professional, and holds an RRP certification. You can rest easy knowing an experienced professional is helping repair your fire damage, water damage, or mold remediation issue.

Utah Flood Cleanup
685 E. 2850 N.
North Ogden, UT 84414
(801) 416-2666