Ways Water Can Enter Your Basement

Water can enter your basement or crawlspace several different ways. If a method is left open for water to enter your basement it will relentlessly work towards finding a way in. Why risk more expensive repairs later when a free inspection can result in minor repairs and a significant savings.

1. Floor Cracks - Caused by pressure from rain water or the water table below the basement floor.
2. Where the floor, walls and footing meet - This is one of the most common places that water can enter your basement. Hydrostatic pressure from water in the soil outside your home can cause leaks in this area into your home.
3. Cracks in Walls - water passes through these cracks, filling the hollow cores of cement blocks - resulting in leakage and loss of "dead-air" insulation (that's why a damp basement is usually a cold basement.)
4. Cracks in Mortar Joints - Another common place for water to infiltrate when under pressure.
5. "Sweating of Walls" - the outside coating of your basement walls may dry out and crack over time. Hydrostatic pressure (from the high water table and infiltration of ground water), causes the walls to soak-up moisture like a 'hard sponge' and wick it through to the inside of the basement.
6. Beneath the Footer - If the outside footing drains have clogged over time the water outside your home may seek a path into your home due to hydrostatic pressure differences.

What Can Contribute to These Problems?

The Area Has Natural Water Problems
Frequent rainstorms or heavy snowmelts cause water pressure to build up and push to gain access to the inside of your basement on a recurring basis.

Destructive Seepage
Once inside water can ruin your basement's contents. Sheet rock, paneling, carpets, floor tile, and furniture all succumb to the destructive power of water. Electrical outlets and power boxes can become hazardous.

Malfunctioning or Inadequate Gutters and Downspouts
Poorly maintained, clogged or broken gutters allow water to spill over. Downspouts that are broken or are not far enough away from the side of the house fail to prevent the water from flowing back toward your home. Water is then absorbed into the ground around your foundation walls.

Malfunctioning or Inadequate Footer Drains

Poor Grading Around Foundation Walls
Soil that is up against the siding can move water by capillary action over the top of your foundation. This can cause dry rot in siding and walls.

If your home has or you suspect it has any of the above problems please call us today for your free estimate and inspection at 1-800-653-3109.