Can Digging Up Plants by House Cause Water in Basement?

Digging up plants by a house may seem like a harmless activity, but it can actually have unexpected consequences, especially when it comes to the presence of water in the basement. In this article, we will explore whether digging up plants by a house can cause water in the basement and what homeowners can do to prevent it.

How Can Digging Up Plants Cause Water in the Basement?

When digging up plants, people often remove a significant amount of soil surrounding the root system. This can cause the soil around the foundation of the house to become loose and unsettled, creating channels for water to flow through. This water can then make its way into the basement, causing damaging flooding and water damage.

If the soil around the foundation of the house is already prone to water infiltration, digging up plants can exacerbate the problem. Water can pool in the area, creating a higher risk of flooding and water damage.

What Can Homeowners Do to Prevent Water in the Basement?

The easiest way to prevent water in the basement is to take steps to keep the soil around the foundation dry. This can be accomplished in several ways. One method is to make sure that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the house. This helps to keep the soil around the foundation dry and prevents water from infiltrating the house.

Another preventative measure homeowners can take is to ensure that the ground around the house is sloping away from the foundation. This directs water away from the house, ensuring that water does not pool in the area, creating a higher risk of flooding and water damage.

Finally, homeowners can look into installing a sump pump in the basement. A sump pump is a device that automatically removes water from the basement when it reaches a certain level, preventing flooding and water damage.

Conclusion

In conclusion, digging up plants by a house can cause water in the basement, especially if the soil around the foundation is already prone to water infiltration. Homeowners can take steps to prevent water in the basement by ensuring that gutters and downspouts are directing water away from the house, ensuring that the ground around the house is sloping away from the foundation, and looking into installing a sump pump in the basement. By taking preventative measures, homeowners can avoid costly water damage to their homes.