Can Melting Snow Cause Flooding?

Many regions throughout the country experience months of heavy snowfall during the winter, creating beautiful winter wonderlands. However, as the sun comes out and blazes down, that beautiful snow can transition into a potential hazard: melting snow that can cause flooding.

In the latest blog post from Rescon Basement Solutions, we’ll take a deep dive into factors that contribute to flooding from melting snow, and discuss how you can protect your basement from flooding this winter season. Contact us today for basement waterproofing services in Southern New Hampshire and Eastern Massachusetts.

Flooding from Melting Snow

As many regions experience colder winters with substantial snowfall, the snow will accumulate on the ground and rooftops. When the sun comes out and temperatures begin to climb in the days following the snowfall, the accumulated snow starts to melt. 

As the snow melts, the water enters the local drainage system. If the rate of snowmelt exceeds the capacity of the drainage system, the excess water can pool and lead to flooding. 

Additionally, the frozen ground, still cold from winter, can initially resist absorbing the produced liquid, further contributing to the potential for runoff. Flooding can be particularly common in areas with poor drainage infrastructure or in regions that experience rapid temperature fluctuations. 

If your home isn’t prepared or has cracks along your basement or foundation, the risk of flooding during the snowmelt period can be even greater. Any vulnerabilities can allow water to infiltrate your home, potentially causing structural damage and water-related issues like mold growth.

How to Stop Your Basement From Flooding When the Snow Melts

Sump Pump

The most effective way to prevent water from entering your basement is by installing a sump pump. A sump pump sits in a specially designed pit in your basement floor known as a sump pit. Its main job is to detect rising water levels in the pit and pump that water out and away from your home’s foundation. 

When snow melts and water attempts to enter your basement, the sump pump activates automatically, helping to keep your basement dry and free from flooding. Installing a sump pump will protect your valuable belongings and the structural integrity of your home during the snowmelt season. 

Regular maintenance and testing of your sump pump are essential to ensure it’s ready to perform when needed, especially during power outages or heavy snowmelt periods.

Battery Back Up Sump Pump

If you ever experience a power outage during a period of heavy snowmelt or other flooding, your standard sump pump won’t be able to turn on. That’s where a battery back up sump pump comes in. 

This secondary pump is designed to operate independently of your primary sump pump and is powered by a battery. When your primary pump fails or if there’s no electricity due to a power outage, the battery backup sump pump automatically kicks in to continue pumping water out of the sump pit and away from your home’s foundation.

Repair Cracks in the Basement

Any cracks in your basement, no matter how big or small, can become potential entry points for water when snow melts and heavy rainfall occurs. It’s crucial to address these cracks promptly to prevent water from infiltrating your basement and causing structural damage or mold growth.

The repair process for basement cracks typically involves cleaning and preparing the crack, filling it with an appropriate sealant or epoxy, and ensuring a watertight seal. Your professional may choose a different solution, depending on your unique situation, to provide you with the most impactful repair. 

Choose Rescon to Keep Your Home Safe from Flooding Due to Snow Melt

At Rescon Basement Solutions, we’re proud to work with homeowners throughout Southern New Hampshire and Eastern Massachusetts. Our services are designed to ensure the safety and well-being of your home, especially during challenging times like snowmelt seasons.

With a talented in-house team of professionals on our side, you can count on Rescon for industry-leading services throughout the area. Contact us today to get started.