Homeowner's Guide to Detecting and Preventing Basement Leaks
The crawl space is important in preventing water damage to the building's structure in the event of flooding or dampness.
A basement is valuable and can serve various functions, from storage to entertainment. Therefore, it's crucial to keep it free from water damage.
Knowing how to detect and prevent leaks before they worsen is vital to ensuring peace of mind and the basement's longevity.
How do leaks happen?
Water can infiltrate a basement in different and frustrating ways:
The plumbing system, including water tanks and pipes
Natural disasters and flooding
Surface water from outside the basement
Inadequate drainage
Furthermore, hydrostatic pressure can occur. When a basement is built, loose soil fills the gaps between the wall and the earth. This can become saturated with water over time and press against the walls and floor of the basement. Aided by gravity, this causes cracks and bowing in the walls and sagging of the floor.
Detecting leaks
The key to dealing with leaks is early detection. Knowing where and what to look for can make all the difference.
Walls: Look for cracks and bowing in the walls. This may occur after heavy rains, snowfall, or extreme weather conditions.
Plumbing: Wet patches on the floor may indicate plumbing leaks. Check all pipes and water heaters.
Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew can indicate too much moisture in the basement. Also, a cluster will form around damp areas and leaks.
Tie rod holes: These circular holes are a common fixture of concrete walls. Leaks from these may be a sign of too much groundwater.
Window wells: The windows to the outside of a basement may also be a way for surface water to enter. Ensure that they're properly sealed and not leaking.
Floors: A sagging or cracked floor may be a sign of hydrostatic pressure of foundation settlement.
Paint damage: Flaking or chipping paint can result from drips or long-term exposure to moisture.
Preventing leaks
Keeping a basement leak-free also relies on proper prevention techniques. While one can handle minor cracks alone, most major waterproofing and repair jobs need the expertise of a professional waterproofing service. Here are some ways to prevent or catch leaks early:
Regular inspection: A regular checkup of the basement is easy to do and should be carried out regularly. However, professional eyes may spot what others miss, and an extensive inspection should be carried out every few years.
Sump pumps: If an area has a high average rainfall or water table, a sump pump may be necessary to keep the surrounding soil free from too much moisture and the walls from too much pressure. These need to be installed professionally.
Clean gutters and downspouts: Properly cleaned and maintained gutters keep rainwater away from the foundations. Be sure to clean them every fall.
Waterproofing: A professional waterproofer will know how to keep any basement leak-free. This can range from proper floor drainage to sealing off walls with absorbent or waterproof materials.
It is best to speak with a professional service for assistance in keeping your basement clean and dry.
Accurate Builders of the Chesapeake provide foundation, basement, and crawlspace installation and repair for the greater Baltimore area homeowners.
