Clogged Gutters Can Worsen Potential Flood Damage

6/4/2018 (Permalink)

Gutters should not overflow and all surface water should be directed away from your home.

Does your home have a basement or crawl space?  If so, you should take some time to inspect how heavy rains flow from your roof.  An clogged gutter will overflow and dump water right next to your foundation which could lead to a water damage in the basement or crawl space.  

Inspect and clean your home’s gutters and downspouts at least once a year. It may seem that all storm damage results from rising waters, but the reality is that the rainfall cascading off your home’s roof could contribute quite a bit to that. If your home’s gutters and downspouts are not properly directing this runoff, you could end up with a damaged foundation, roof damage and more flooding than you would have had otherwise. 

Also, make sure your downspout extensions direct water away from your home's foundation.  They should extend out at least 3 feet to an area where the water will drain away from your home.

Next time the Huntsville/Madison County area is hit with heavy rains, take a minute to inspect around your home for these issues.  If despite your best efforts to prevent flood damage, you do experience flooding in your home, it is important to get help from a professional storm damage company as quickly as possible. SERVPRO of South Madison County can respond immediately to storm and flooding conditions.