Why McMinnville Basements Flood

McMinnville sits in the Willamette Valley, where seasonal rainfall overwhelms undersized drainage systems. Most homes were built with minimal foundation waterproofing, and over time the exterior drain tiles clog with silt. When heavy rain saturates the soil, hydrostatic pressure forces water through foundation cracks, cold joints, and window wells. Gutters that dump water next to the foundation make the problem worse. The result is standing water in your basement after every storm.

Immediate Steps After a Basement Flood

Shut off electricity to the basement at the breaker panel if standing water is present. Do not enter a flooded basement with live power. Once it's safe, start removing water with a sump pump or wet vacuum. Move furniture, boxes, and anything porous off the floor. Open windows and run fans to increase airflow. The faster you dry the space, the less likely mold will start growing. Do not leave wet carpet, drywall, or insulation in place for more than 48 hours.

Professional Basement Flood Cleanup

We arrive with truck-mounted extractors that remove standing water in minutes. Then we use thermal cameras and moisture meters to find hidden water in wall cavities and behind baseboards. Air movers and dehumidifiers get placed to create airflow and pull moisture out of porous materials. We monitor moisture levels daily and adjust equipment as needed. If drywall or insulation stayed wet too long, we remove it to prevent mold. Once the basement is dry, we assess the exterior drainage and recommend permanent solutions like regrading, gutter extensions, or sump pump installation.

Insurance Coverage for Basement Flooding

Flooding from surface water is usually excluded under standard homeowners policies. However, if the water entered due to a sudden plumbing failure or sewer backup, there may be coverage. We document the source, photograph all damage, and provide a detailed scope that explains how the water entered. If the cause is covered, we handle the claim and ensure you get the restoration you need.

If your basement floods every winter, call for a free inspection. We'll dry the space, remove damaged materials, and explain what drainage fixes will prevent it from happening again.