Why Do Basements Flood Most in March and April?

As temperatures rise in March and April, snow from the winter melts all at once. That water has nowhere to go if the ground below is still frozen or already soaked. The runoff flows toward the lowest point, which is often your basement.

Spring rain adds to the problem. A few heavy storms in a short period can saturate the soil completely. Once the dirt can hold no more moisture, any extra water heads straight for the foundation walls and floor slab.

Frozen soil expands during winter. When it thaws in spring, it shifts and settles unevenly. That movement can crack basement walls, floors, or the footing that supports them.

A new crack from frost heave may not show up until the ground is fully wet. Water finds that crack quickly. Once it enters, it can soak carpets, drywall, and anything stored on the floor.

Check your gutters and downspouts before the next storm. Clear leaves and debris so water flows away from the house. Look at the slope of the soil around your foundation and add dirt where it dips toward the walls.

If water has already entered, act quickly. Remove wet items from the floor and dry the area to limit mold growth. If you live in Cincinnati, keep your shutoff valve location written down in case a burst pipe adds to the problem.

For a large flood, contact local water damage pros. They can remove standing water, dry the space, and clean affected surfaces. They also help with sewage cleanup if the flood came from a backed-up drain.

• Clear gutters and downspouts
• Extend downspouts at least six feet from the house
• Regrade soil to slope away from the foundation
• Seal small cracks in the floor or walls
• Test your sump pump before heavy rain
• Move stored items off the floor