A leaky seal can cause water to enter and drip into the floor of your basement.Basements are some of the most functional and diverse spaces in the home. Whether you use your basement for storage and washing or enjoy your basement as an additional family space, this bonus room is a favorite among homeowners. Although these rooms are functional, many basements will have water intrusion over years of use. This can be caused by a numerous amount of reasons, but determining the source of water intrusion is essential to halting and repairing your basement for continued safety and use in the home. Here are some of the leading causes of water intrusion in basements.
Foundation Issues
The foundation of the home is literally what it sounds like: the core of your entire home. If you live in an older home or a home that wasn’t vetted for a solid foundation, it is likely that you will be met with cracks and leveling in the home. Older homes often have natural settling over time which can be another cause of foundation cracks. These types of openings leave the perfect place for water to enter the home and seep into your basement causing puddles of water to eventual flooding.
Window Seals
If your basement has windows that provide ventilation or access to your home from the outside, ensuring that your window seals are strong and secure is essential. A leaky seal can cause water to enter and drip into the floor of your basement. This is also something to consider if you live in a flood-prone area. Windows that are met with constant rain water can be more likely to cause basement leaks.
Misaligned Downspouts
Downspouts are meant to push excess rainwater away from the home and prevent foundation erosion and discoloration to your exterior. If your home has downspouts that were installed incorrectly or have moved over time, these downspouts can potentially be pushing water towards your home instead. This can increase the rate of foundation erosion causing issues sooner in your basement.
Weather
If you live in an area prone to sustained inclimate weather, your foundation can take a beating. Long periods of snow guarantee that excess water will be near your home for long periods of time increasing the likelihood of future water intrusion. This is something that you as a homeowner cannot stop, but you can stay aware and routinely check your foundation for any issues that may be occurring due to this build-up.
What Can I Do?
Now that you know the cause of the issue, it is best to call in a professionals that can fix any major foundation issues and implement a safe basement waterproofing for your home. These professionals can easily determine the best waterproofing plan for your home and help you along through your journey to a clean, mold-free basement for your family to enjoy and use for years to come.
Posted in : Basement Waterproofing