Families in the metro saw consistent rain in the past week and many people in Kansas City have horror stories from ruined landscape, sump pump failure to straight out flooding.
Stephanie Sage with Sage Restoration says they have already seen eight cases.
"Early spring is a great time to make sure you have everything in place in and around your home to protect your basement against water intrusion,” said Stephanie Sage, owner of Sage Restoration. “But, if water does seep into your home, it can wreak havoc on your flooring, your walls and even your health.”
Here are tips to prevent flooding during severe weather:
1. Build up your landscaping around your foundation, using dirt or mulch, so that water is directed out and away from your foundation. This helps prevent water from pooling in dips in the ground that allow water to slowly make its way into your foundation.
2. Clear your gutters from leaves, debris, twigs, etc. because if they are full and can’t drain the water, it will simply cascade like a water fall down the sides of your house and/or windows and begin pooling, potentially making its way into your foundation and ultimately your basement.
3. Make sure your gutter spouts lead water out and away from your foundation. If the spouts are not far enough away from your house, water can begin to pool and make its way into your basement.
4. Check your sump pump to make sure it is working correctly! Install a back-up battery in case of a power outage. It’s also a good idea during storms and heavy rains to periodically check on your sump pump to make sure it is working.
Sage also says gutter covers can be useful.
Down spouts should also push out from the house four to eight feet.
Most sump pumps are available online for under $150.
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