03/11/2026
St. Louis is known for so many lovely things in the Spring: amazing botanical displays, St. Louis Cardinals games, and countless outdoor activities! But Springtime in St. Louis is also known for rainy days and water-damaged basements. With the rainy season upon us, we're sharing tips on how to prevent rainwater from entering your home and what to do if you descend the stairs to a soggy basement.
How to prevent a wet basement:
☔ Extend your downspouts away from your foundation
☔ Grade soil away from the house, aiming for a 6-inch drop
☔ Maintain your gutters to make sure they aren't blocked and can function the way they're intended to
☔ Seal all the cracks in your foundation to keep rainwater from entering
☔ Install window well covers
☔ Install a sump pump
What to do if it's already happened:
🪣 First things first ⚠️ if any water is near electrical outlets or appliances, turn off the power before doing anything else
🪣 Use a wet-dry vacuum to get as much water up as you can
🪣 Use high-capacity fans and dehumidifiers to get rid of remaining moisture and keep mold from growing
🪣 If the leaks are substantial, don't waste money on quick, short-term fixes. Call in a professional sooner rather than later to have the problem assessed and treated immediately. If you need a recommendation for a local, trusted water removal expert, reach out to your Gladys Manion agent, and they'll help you find the perfect company!
Spring in St. Louis is gorgeous, don't spend it mopping up rainwater in your basement! Now is the perfect time to check your home for any potential issues. 👍
Gladys Manion Real Estate
314.721.4755 office