During an overland flood event, water can enter basements from unsealed openings in basement walls. These openings may include gaps between the basement wall and the framing around windows and doors, gaps around electrical wiring, phone and television cables and gaps around pipes and other services that enter the basement. Cracks in brickwork can also provide entry-points for overland floodwater. These gaps should be indentified and sealed.

Newer windows that have been properly installed are better able to hold back floodwater than older windows where framing, weather stripping and sealants have deteriorated. Newer window frames made from synthetic materials, rather than wood, can also help to reduce the chances that water will enter the basement.

The gap between door and window frames can be sealed to reduce the chances that water will seep between the door or window and the wall. The use of proper weather stripping in windows and doors can also reduce the chances that overland flooding will enter the basement. There are also opportunities to use glass in basement windows that is stronger and better able to hold back overland flood water. Talk to a qualified contractor to explore these and other options for sealing water entry-points in your basement.