Should you happen to have a basement prone to flooding, complete restoration by a pro is the first step to consider before storing any valuables or finishing the space for entertainment purposes.

If water or flood damage has already occurred in your home, a disaster restoration partner that’s able to respond quickly and efficiently is crucial in preventing additional damage. They can also help to mitigate the many health risks associated with mold and other organisms that can begin growing shortly thereafter.

Whether damage to your home was caused by a heavy storm, a burst pipe, a slow leak, or a cause you’ve yet to discover; they can help immediately. A professional restoration company will have a highly trained team of water damage restoration experts to perform a rigorous inspection to ensure your home is safe. Then they work to identify and mitigate any unforeseen dangers, such as electrical damage, contaminated water, mold, and other organisms growing due to excessive moisture.

Let’s take, for example, if your home already has a finished basement, complete with a professionally installed home theater system and automated lighting and security systems. Obviously, electrical damage is going to be the first concern in this scenario. Additionally, if this has happened, be sure to keep everyone in the household OUT of the basement; as we all know, water and electricity do not mix. Call the proper authorities immediately and follow their directions on what to do should your electrical system be compromised.

Be sure to consult with a professional before taking any drastic measures. They will be able to assess your specific situation and give you tailored advice.

Always remember information within this article is meant for entertainment purposes only and is in no way a replacement for professional support. Seek appropriate advice from a reputable construction professional should you feel it necessary.

Is it safe to stay in a house with a flooded basement?

Because water conducts electricity, entering a flooded basement can be deadly. For water more than a foot deep, the risk of electrocution is much higher, and you’ll need to hire a professional specializing in flood remediation. Call the proper authorities immediately if this occurs.

Basement safety is a priority for many homeowners in the Midwest region. Excess moisture in the lower levels of a home will potentially lead to very dangerous electrical problems. When it becomes flooded, wires, outlets, and switches become obstacles for electric currents to travel through. When this happens, severe shock or electrocution may be imminent. Therefore, if a basement floods, it is imperative that all electricity to the room be immediately turned off. Call a pro if you are uncertain how to do so.

When dealing with a flooded basement, it is essential to understand the different causes of flooding. Basement flooding is often the result of failed sump pumps, heavy rains, or severe plumbing issues. Regardless of the cause, it is wise to take steps to protect the space.

Overall, the best way to ensure basement flood safety is to take preventive measures, which could include the use of waterproofing sealants or installing a proper drainage system to prevent flooding from happening in the first place. If the basement is already flooded, contact a professional immediately to avoid any potentially dangerous situations.

How do you finish a basement prone to flooding?

Rubber, vinyl and ceramic tile flooring are all good options because they are water-resistant and durable. Rubber and vinyl floors are outstanding options if you want a cheap, hardy floor that’s easy to replace. You could also consider laying a concrete floor and covering it with epoxy to make it waterproof.

But before you begin transforming your basement into a comfy living space with entertainment galore, it’s essential to take some time to waterproof and seal the space to protect your technology, furnishings, and belongings from moisture damage, mold, and mildew. There are several basement waterproofing products on the market, so it’s essential to do some research to find the best solution for your needs. It is best to hire a professional contractor to help with the job.

In addition to waterproofing the basement, you’ll also need to seal any cracks or gaps in the walls and floor. Every year my Papa would have to deep clean, seal, and waterproof that special old basement all by himself; back then, that’s what they did. They never asked for help! Hmm, maybe why that basement still floods to this day!

Hiring professionals will help to prevent basement flooding and further damage to the space. Taking these precautions ensures that your basement is protected from water damage and ready for entertainment.

Uses of basements

If you are from the mid-west region of the US, specifically Michigan, you know the value basements bring to a home. But believe it or not, some places do not have basements! Personally, I was shocked when I heard this, as there are so many valuable uses for basements.  

Growing up with a finished basement, it was the go-to place on hot nights. We did not have central air or even a window air conditioner. But hey, we didn’t need it with a cool basement to set up “camp” in! Whether because of the heat or a tornado watch, camping out in the basement was a fun adventure for me as a kid. 

Below are a few popular uses for basements:

• Utility / Laundry Room
• Game Room
• Extra Storage
• Kitchenette / Kitchen
• Playroom
• Workout Room / Home Gym
• Music Room
• Dance Studio
• Recording Studio
• Theater / Media Room
• Den or Informal Living Room
• Wine Cellar/ Home Bar
• Home Office
• Library
• Additional Bedroom(s)
• Additional Bathroom
• Nooks
• Craft Room or Workshop
• Food Cellar

Not only did my mom and I have a finished basement, but so did my grandparents. Memories of being a little girl in my Nana’s basement during the Holiday season invoke smells of manicotti and sausage. Delicious smells filled that beautifully decorated basement as we kids anxiously waited for that special “early visit” from Santa. After dinner and before opening presents with the family, Santa came to our grandparent’s house on Christmas Eve because Nana was his “personal friend.”

These memories have inspired me to create that same scenario for my family by creating an entertainment space in our finished basement.

Finish a basement that floods

In conclusion, before considering installing a new home entertainment system or an extra kitchen in your basement, it is of high importance to ensure the basement is clean, dry, sealed, and waterproofed.

Take the time to assess the causes of flooding and make proactive preparations, including installing a proper drainage system, sewing waterproof sealants, and utilizing shutters or flood doors.

Moreover, ensure the electricity is provided to the basement from a safe and protected location. Not completing these necessary steps can lead to catastrophic damage in the form of electrical shock or the growth of dangerous mold or organisms that thrive in wet environments.