Snow Melt: What Melting Snow Can Mean For Your Crawl Space or Basement 

I think I can speak on behalf of most of the people in Michigan when I say that I’m ready for spring. Give me sunny days, blossoming tulips, and Easter candy! As the temperature rises, so do our hopes, while we watch the grey snow piles in our yard start to finally melt. This joyful moment can be spoiled fast, however, once you realize that the snow melt has left you with a wet basement.

How Snowmelt Enters Your Basement 

If you passed 5th grade science, you know that snow enters a liquid state (water) once heat is added.  The National Weather Service states that 10 inches of snow is the equivalent of 1 inch of rainfall.

As the water runs along the foundation walls, the water usually finds its way into the crawl space or basement through cracks in the foundation. These cracks can arise from natural changes in the soil as the ground expands and shrinks with different amounts of moisture. If you don’t have a waterproofing system in place like WaterGuard or a sump pump to get the water out of the space, you may find yourself needing to put on waders before you head downstairs. 

How to Prevent a Flooded Basement 

Clear a Path

The most simple way to prevent snowmelt from entering your basement is to clear the snow away from your foundation. The next time you’re out to shovel your driveway and sidewalks, clearing the snow a few feet away from the foundation will help ensure that the foundation isn't the first place the snowmelt seeks.

Clean Your Gutters

Making sure that your gutters are clear and that downspouts are far enough away from the house can also alleviate problems. According to North Dakota State University, around 2,500 gallons of water will come from a 1,000 square foot roof with one foot of snow depth across the roof. If the downspout is too close to the home allowing water to drain close to the foundation, it could cause major problems.

Check Your Sump Pump

Lastly, installing a sump pump or checking to see that yours is functioning properly can prevent standing water in your basement. A sump pump collects water in a basin and automatically pumps it out of the basement through a discharge line, rerouting the water into the yard away from the foundation. Ayers can even install this discharge line undergound, eliminating both a tripping hazard and eyesore, while still keeping water away from your home.

Call the Experts!

There are too many things that  you should be enjoying this spring instead of worrying about the snow around your home. We’d be happy to answer your questions and address your concerns, so you can enjoy your home in the rain, snow(melt), or shine!