If your basement leaks when it rains, you can find some relief in knowing it’s a common issue. The bad news? It’s a big deal. At Smouse Brothers, we’re here to fix major issues like basement leaks so your home stays dry no matter what the weather is like outside. Let’s look at some common causes and how they can be fixed.
Common Causes
There are many reasons that water gets into your basement after it rains. Some of the most common causes include:
- Hydrostatic pressure: This is the culprit most often. It occurs when hydrostatic pressure builds up because of moisture in the soil that can’t drain away, leading to water being pressed through tiny cracks in your basement walls.
- Window wells: One simple way to determine this issue is by looking for water stains on the window wells and around the windows. It happens when water gets stuck in the window well and eventually finds its way into your basement.
- Shrinkage cracks: If you have poured foundation walls, it’s important to know that they’re notorious for allowing water to seep into your basement. This issue can be compounded by hydrostatic pressure in the soil that surrounds your basement walls.
- Wall cracks: Concrete block foundation walls can develop cracks over time, making it easy for water to leak into your basement.
- Cove joint: This spot, where the wall and floor meet, is a common place for water to leak into basements.
Why It’s Important to Take Care of It ASAP
It’s not normal for your basement to leak when it rains, and it’s not ideal for the integrity of your home. Small leaks are red flags that there’s something wrong, and if neglected, can lead to costly repairs. Hydrostatic pressure leaks, for example, can make walls crack and bow, impacting the structural integrity of your home. Without immediate action, they can be very expensive to repair.
How To Prevent a Leaky Basement from Happening Again
There are several things you can do to keep water from leaking into your basement. Here are five:
- Clean your window wells: Find the drain in your window wells and test it to make sure it’s working by inserting a garden hose. If there’s no drain, contact a repairman. If it’s clogged with debris, clean it out.
- Improve the grading: Soil around your home’s foundation should always slope away from the structure. If yours slopes toward the foundation, contact a landscaper or the pros at Smouse Bros for help.
- Clean gutters and downspouts: This system is designed to move rainwater away from your home. When clogged with sticks, leaves, and other debris, the water will stick around, and find new paths to flow, including inside your basement.
- Repair cracks in the foundation: Cracks are the perfect spaces for rainwater to seep into your basement. Use an interior sealant for small cracks and contact a professional for more severe issues.
- Install a waterproofing system: If this issue is a regular occurrence, you may need to invest in a basement waterproofing system. This includes a sump pump, vapor barrier, drainage pipe, and a French drain system. With waterproofing in place, you won’t have to worry about hydrostatic pressure, mold, and leaks.
Basement Waterproofing Services
If your basement leaks when it rains, call the Smouse Bros. We’ve got over 16 years of experience in the industry.
We’re committed to keeping homes in the area leak-free.
Contact us today to get a free quote with no obligations so you can make the best decision for your home and budget.
Call Now: (417) 988-8201
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