What Causes Water in the Basement?

Finding water in your basement is one of the most annoying challenges that many homeowners face. While you deal with the fallout of basement water intrusion, it's important to determine the source of the leak so you can get it repaired immediately. There are many sources of water in the basement, and knowing the cause in your home can make basement waterproofing by The Basement Guys® go much smoother. In this article, we will discuss the most common sources of water in the basement.

Surface Water

Surface water is one of the most common sources of water in the basement. This is water that comes from the ground surface and seeps into the basement through cracks in the foundation, windows, or doors. This can happen when there is heavy rainfall, or when snow or ice melts. To prevent surface water from entering the basement, it is important to ensure that the ground around the foundation slopes away from the house. Additionally, you can install downspouts to direct water away from the foundation.

Groundwater

Groundwater is another common source of water in the basement. This is water that comes from the ground and seeps into the basement through the foundation. This can happen when the water table is high or when there is heavy rainfall. To prevent groundwater from entering the basement, it is important to ensure that the foundation is sealed properly. This can be done by applying a waterproofing membrane to the foundation or by installing a drainage system.

Plumbing Problems

Plumbing problems can also be a source of water in the basement. This can happen when there is a leaky pipe or a burst pipe. To prevent plumbing problems from causing water damage in the basement, it is important to inspect the plumbing regularly and address any leaks or other issues as soon as they are identified.

Sump Pump Failure

A sump pump is a device that is used to remove water from the basement. It is typically installed in a pit in the basement and is activated when the water level in the pit reaches a certain level. If the sump pump fails, the water level in the pit can rise and water can seep into the basement. To prevent sump pump failure, it is important to ensure that the sump pump is properly installed and maintained.

Condensation

Condensation is another common source of water in the basement. This can happen when warm, humid air comes into contact with cool surfaces in the basement, such as walls, floors, or pipes. To prevent condensation from causing water damage in the basement, it is important to ensure that the basement is properly ventilated and dehumidified.

Leaking Foundation

A leaking foundation is another source of water in the basement. This can happen when the foundation is cracked or damaged, allowing water to seep into the basement. To prevent a leaking foundation from causing water damage in the basement, it is important to ensure that the foundation is properly sealed and maintained.

It is important to identify the source of water in your basement in order to effectively address the problem. Whether you're facing sump pump failure or a leaking foundation, the wide array of waterproofing products and services from The Basement Guys® can help lock out moisture and prevent future leaks. By taking steps to prevent these issues from occurring, homeowners can protect their homes from water damage and avoid the costly repairs that can result from water damage. Give us a call today to schedule a free basement waterproofing estimate.