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Step 1
Clean your gutters annually and place small screens over downspout openings. Fallen leaves and wind-borne debris can collect in gutters, blocking drainage and causing runoff to overflow and pool next to the foundation. After cleaning out debris, place small squares of regular window screen over openings to keep future leaves from entering the downspout.
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Step 2
Install larger downspouts. Removal and installation of new, larger downspouts deters drainage problems that result in a wet basement.
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Step 3
Add splash blocks underneath the downspout openings. These are designed to slope away from the house, carrying water away from the foundation.
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Step 4
Check your sump pump. When the pump is working correctly, water from the drain tile will flow into the pump and as the level increases it will pump the water out of the basement.
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Step 5
Remove foundation plantings. Bushes, shrubs and flowers should be replanted three or more feet out from the concrete wall. This can reduce standing water that accumulates during regular watering. Large trees should be no closer than 20 feet from the foundation
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Step 6
Fill foundation cracks. Small cracks may occur with normal settling of the home and shifting of the soil. Purchase a bag of dry foundation grout from your local do-it-yourself building center; mix and apply as manufacturer suggests.
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Step 7
Grade the yard away from the house. It must slope away from the house on a minimum of a 2 percent grade. Remove soil from a different part of the yard or have it hauled in and smooth it at an angle away from your home to encourage runoff.
