Insights Into How to Prevent Spring Flooding In Your Boston Home

The temperatures are finally starting to warm up, and flowers are blooming. All of these are wonderful indications that spring is just around the corner. However, there are other less-welcomed signs that can point to a change in the seasons. One of those signs is spring flooding.

Many homes in the Boston area succumb to the damaging impact of those well-known spring showers. Basements are especially susceptible to water damage from leaks when the ground becomes too saturated.

Fortunately, United Property Restoration Services knows a thing or two about how to prevent spring flooding and other causes of water damage in basements. Keep reading to gain more insight into the best ways to protect a Boston home from water damage this year.

Inspect Gutters/Downspouts

A home’s gutters are often the first line of defense against any spring flooding. A properly functioning drainage system can redirect water away from the foundation so that there is no risk of leaks. Unfortunately, debris, ice, and rodents can leave gutters and downspouts in less than desirable condition. Therefore, it’s crucial that homeowners regularly inspect their gutters every spring and make any repairs as quickly as possible. 

Move Snow Away from Home

Though warm weather is just around the corner, the Boston area isn’t completely out of the woods yet when it comes to snow. If there are any snow piles accumulating around a house, the homeowner should shovel it away rather than letting it melt. If it melts too close to the foundation, it can find its way through cracks. Not to mention, it will leave the ground around the home saturated before spring showers come to make the problem worse. 

Ensure Property is Graded Properly

A home that isn’t graded properly is more likely to experience damage from spring flooding. Therefore, it’s important that any landscaping help direct the flow of water away from the house. In some cases, this may require that more soil be added around the house to create a better slope. 

Check Foundation for Cracks

Foundation inspections should be a routine part of household maintenance. It’s important that homeowners catch any foundation cracks before they let any water in. This is the best way to prevent spring flooding in your home. Some foundation cracks may be quickly patched. Other more extensive foundation issues may require professional assistance. 

Get Your Sump Pump Ready

A sump pump can be a great way to prevent damage from spring flooding if all of your other measures fail. All Boston homes that are susceptible to basement flooding should have a sump pump installed. They are also great for protecting any other below-grade rooms. They come in portable and permanent versions, and it never hurts to have a spare.

However, they, too, can fail if they aren’t maintained. For that reason, it is recommended that homeowners check out their sump pumps every winter going into spring. Proper maintenance is key to ensuring a home is safe from spring water damage.

Consider Flood Insurance 

Finally, homeowners should strongly consider adding flood insurance to their homeowner's insurance policy. Often floods caused by weather aren’t covered by a standard insurance policy. 

Flood insurance may seem like another unnecessary expense, but it can save homeowners thousands of dollars in water damage restoration. Homeowners should discuss their flood protection needs with their insurance agents to find the best coverage for their homes and budget.

Learn More About How to Prevent Spring Flooding in Your Home 

Homeowners in the Boston area should contact United Property Restoration Services to learn more about how they can prevent the damaging effects of spring flooding. Their highly trained water damage specialists are happy to provide more information over the phone. 

If homeowners suspect that their home has already been impacted by spring flooding, it is all the more important to contact this team of skilled professionals. They can be reached for emergency services 24/7 at (781) 412-1076, or Boston residents can submit their details through the simple quote form.