Whether your basement has standing water, seeping water through cracks or just a musty odor - any level of unwanted water could jeopardize your home's structure as well as your health.
If you've experienced a wet basement, you know how much of a hassle it is. You have to deal with replacing damaged carpet and the dangers of potential mold growth. If you use your basement for storage or extra living space, it's important to understand the effects of water and how to alleviate future problems.
So why do basement floors leak, and how can homeowners protect their homes against basement floods? Several factors cause leaks, but the most common sources include:
- Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure refers to the water pressure in the soil which causes serious basement water issues. Heavy rains and the soil type play a major factor in increasing hydrostatic pressure. When the water pressure increases, so do the potential for basement leaks. In turn, this causes structural damage as well as wall cracks and foundations, providing an opening for water. - Malfunctioning Sump Pump
Malfunctioning or broken sump pumps can create a high water table beneath the basement floor. If the drain pipes are not functioning properly, water can accumulate in the sump basin or seep through floor cracks. Make sure your sump pump is inspected regularly to avoid clogged lines and other problems. - Improperly Working Drain Tile
Today's homes are built with a drain tile that wraps around the perimeter of the basement. It consists of a perforated pipe that is surrounded by gravel. This type of system is pretty sturdy. However, drain tiles that are built in older homes are more susceptible to failure because they are made from clay crocks wrapped in felt roofing paper. To make sure your drain tile is working, hire a waterproofing specialist. They can install a reliable drain tile to divert water away from your basement. - Window Wells Leak
When your water drainage system is malfunctioning, water may accumulate around the window wells. Usually, clogged gutters are a common source of water-related problems so it is important to keep them clean. Also, install downspout extensions to divert water away from the window wells.
Solutions for Basement Floor Cracks
If you have water seepage in your basement, hire a professional waterproofing to assess your home right away! Without a waterproofing system, a flood can weaken walls and destroy your home's structure. Wet basements also carry a legitimate risk of electrical shock so don't try to tackle seepage on your own.
At Pro Foundation Technology, Inc., we can help protect your home against basement seepage. We offer both waterproofing and concrete repair solutions to restore your floor to normal. We install quality, heavy-duty sump pumps as well as a drainage system.
One of our specialists can give you an inspection so give us a call today or fill out our quote request form.
Filed under Basement waterproofing, Common Structural Problems, Common Water Problems, Water Management
Tags: Water seepage, Wet basements