Sometimes water can’t be avoided.

Even if you’ve followed all the great advice in the world about gutters, downspouts, and grading, a 100-year-old foundation is just not waterproof, and in a year with lots of snow, there’s a good chance you’ll end up with some wetness where you wish it weren’t.

We don’t really think you’ll need scuba gear, but even a little moisture can be a big pain if you’re not prepared.

Here’s how to get ready:

If a gradual seep toward sogginess would hurt it, keep it away from the basement floor and walls.

Cleanup is less painful when you have good tools ready.

Maybe you haven’t seen yours since the last hot days of August. Figure out where it is now, in case you need to use it to dry out a damp space. A dehumidifier (though pricier, at $100 and up) can also help, especially if you have ongoing, low-grade dampness.

In an older home, some amount of moisture in the basement during a wet spring is just part of the deal. If you’ve done all you can to minimize it, protected items you store in the basement, and prepared for cleanup, you can go through the spring thaw season with serenity—or at least keep from freaking out the day you discover seepage!