A flooded basement is a nightmare for any homeowner. From water-damaged belongings to major repairs and potential health hazards, it’s a situation no one wants to deal with. If you’re a homeowner in Oklahoma, you know that unpredictable weather—especially heavy rains—can put your basement at risk. The good news? You can take steps to prevent it.
At A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing, we’ve helped countless homeowners protect their basements, and today, we’re sharing tips to help you do the same. Here’s everything you need to know about protecting your property from basement flooding and how we can help.
Why Basements Flood in Oklahoma
Basement flooding in Oklahoma is often caused by a combination of heavy rains and the state’s unique soil conditions. Oklahoma’s clay-heavy soil expands when wet and contracts when dry, putting immense pressure on your home’s foundation. This can lead to cracks where water seeps in.
Other common causes include:
- Poor Drainage Systems: Clogged gutters or improperly sloped yards direct water toward your foundation.
- Hydrostatic Pressure: When water accumulates around your home, the pressure it creates can force it into your basement through cracks or pores in the foundation walls.
- Old or Inadequate Waterproofing: Older homes may lack proper waterproofing, leaving basements vulnerable to flooding.
Understanding these risks is the first step in protecting your home, and as Tulsa-based experts, we’re equipped to help you tackle them.
Signs Your Basement is at Risk
Not all basement flooding happens suddenly. Often, there are warning signs that your basement might be at risk:
- Damp or Wet Walls: Persistent dampness or discoloration can indicate water seepage. Over time, this moisture can weaken your walls and promote mold growth.
- Musty Odors: This smell is a clear sign of excess moisture and potential mold growth. It can also indicate poor ventilation, which worsens humidity problems.
- Visible Cracks: Even small cracks in walls or floors can become entry points for water. Left untreated, these cracks can expand, leading to structural damage.
- Water Pooling Outside: If water collects around your foundation after a storm, your basement is at risk. This often signals improper drainage or grading issues in your yard.
Spotting these signs early allows you to address the problem before it worsens—and we’re here to help with inspections and expert solutions.
How To Prevent Basement Flooding In Your Home

Now, let’s jump to the main topic of our blog post. This section focuses on some crucial tips that can help you prevent flooding in your basement.
Waterproofing Your Basement
One of the most successful ways to protect your basement from flooding is waterproofing. Now, there are two main types of waterproofing: interior and exterior basement waterproofing. These are a combination of methods that are used to ensure that water does not enter your basement and damage your belongings.
Let’s take a look at both of these methods.
Interior Waterproofing
Interior waterproofing is often the first line of defense against basement flooding. This involves applying sealants to walls and floors to prevent water from seeping through. Another effective method is installing a drainage system to redirect water to a sump pump.
At A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing, we specialize in custom interior waterproofing services in Oklahoma that keep your basement dry and safe, even during heavy rain.
Also Read: Best Basement Waterproofing Products Of 2024
Exterior Basement Waterproofing
When it comes to preventing basement floods, exterior basement waterproofing is even more important. This is because while interior basement waterproofing deals with water that has already made its way inside, external methods focus on barricading the outside.
Stopping water before it even reaches your basement is key. Exterior waterproofing involves applying a protective barrier to your foundation and installing systems like French drains to divert water away.
While exterior waterproofing requires professional expertise, it’s one of the most effective ways to prevent flooding. Our team can assess your home and implement a long-lasting solution tailored to your needs.
Also Read: How Much Does Basement Waterproofing Cost in 2024?
Other Solutions To Keep Your Basement Dry
Basement waterproofing, both interior and exterior, is one of the best methods to protect your basement. However, there are other things you can do apart from waterproofing your basement.
Proper Drainage Systems
Ensuring your home has a proper drainage system is critical to preventing water from accumulating around your foundation and seeping into your basement. Here’s what to check and why it matters:
Gutters and Downspouts:
Gutters are located along the roof but play a vital role in protecting your foundation. With the help of downspouts, they help direct water away from your home.
Homeowners should make sure their gutters are clear of debris and that downspouts extend at least six feet away from their foundation. Clogged gutters can overflow, allowing water to cascade directly against your home, while downspouts that are too short will deposit water too close to the foundation, increasing the risk of flooding. Consider installing gutter extensions or splash blocks for added protection.
French Drains:
These systems channel water away from your home by redirecting it to a safer location, such as a storm drain or a sump pump. Properly installed French drains not only prevent basement flooding but also alleviate hydrostatic pressure on your foundation, reducing the likelihood of cracks or structural damage.
If you’re unsure about the state of your drainage systems, we can inspect or repair them so they’re working perfectly. Our team specializes in designing custom drainage solutions tailored to your property’s specific needs.
Install A Sump Pump
A sump pump is a device that helps keep your basement dry by removing water. This device gets its name from the pump that is located in a sump pit; a kind of pump in your basement floor and turns on automatically when water starts collecting. When water fills the pit, the pump sends it away from your house through pipes, usually to your yard or storm drain.
Many newer sump pumps come with backup batteries, which is especially important during storms that knock out power. The backup ensures the pump keeps working when you need it most.
To keep your sump pump working properly, you should:
- Test it regularly to make sure it turns on
- Clean out any dirt or debris from the pit
- Check the pipes that carry water out to make sure they’re not blocked or frozen
Landscaping Adjustments
Your yard’s landscaping can also help stop basement flooding. Proper grading is essential so water flows away from your home, preventing it from pooling around your foundation. Ideally, the ground should slope away at a grade of at least 1 inch per foot for every 6 to 10 feet.
Strategically planting water-absorbent plants and shrubs can also help. These plants act as natural barriers, soaking up excess surface water before it reaches your foundation. Native plants are particularly effective, as they require less maintenance and are well-suited to local weather conditions.
By combining smart landscaping choices with effective waterproofing solutions, you can lower the risk of water damage to your home.
Why Professional Help is Essential In Basement Waterproofing
Basement waterproofing and drainage solutions can be complex. Without the right expertise, DIY fixes may not address the root of the problem—and they could even make things worse.
Here’s why professional help is crucial:
- Accurate Diagnosis: We use advanced tools to identify the source of water intrusion.
- Tailored Solutions: Every home is different, and we create custom plans to address your needs.
- Quality Workmanship: With years of experience, we ensure every job is done right the first time.
At A. Fricker Roofing and Waterproofing, we’ve built a reputation for excellence in Oklahoma by combining expert knowledge with unmatched customer service. We have expertise in both interior and exterior waterproofing methods. When it comes to basement flooding, prevention is always better (and less expensive) than repairs later. Take steps to protect your home. Contact us today at (918) 402-7167.