What Causes Basement Leaks? 

Basement leaks are usually caused by either poor installation, a lack of proper protection from the elements, or an excess of drainage. Damp proofing prevents basement leaks through the use of barriers that prevent groundwater from entering the basement. These barriers are usually applied at the exterior of the foundation wall as well as inside the walls. In most cases, these barriers will consist of mats, socks, or plastic wraps.

Cracks are a major cause of water intrusion into the basement 

By making sure that basement walls are reinforced and waterproofed, will prevent leaks from occurring. Cracks should also be patched immediately after they have been discovered. Condensation can also be a cause of basement leaks. The buildup of condensation causes a number of problems including increased heating and cooling costs, a decline in interior humidity levels, as well as structural damage. When basement waterproofing is employed, the interior waterproofing membrane will be applied to the exterior of the foundation wall and the interior surface to be treated.

Improper installation of basement waterproofing systems can result in leaks and cracks

For example, if the drainage vent pipes under basement walls have been installed too shallow, condensation can form at the vents. Cracks may then occur. Other causes of basement leaks and cracks include poorly designed interior waterproofing materials, poor installation techniques, and the inability to effectively drain water.

Basement waterproofing is usually carried out by professionals. A qualified professional will carry out a thorough inspection and evaluate your home and property. He will recommend the best type of waterproofing system based on the needs of your home. There are three main types of basement waterproofing systems available. These are exterior drainage systems, interior water drainage systems, and exterior basement water drainage systems.

Exterior Drainage Systems 

Exterior drainage systems are the most effective way to prevent basement moisture from reaching your home. This is often accomplished with perforated drains and French drains. Interior drainage systems are installed within the walls themselves and use gravity to move excess water away from the home. Interior drainage systems are often combined with exterior waterproofing methods to strengthen the foundation of your home. Interior basement waterproofing methods can also prevent basement moisture from reaching your personal property.

What are the most common types of Basement Leaks? 

The most common type of basement leak is caused by drainage problems in the soil surrounding your home. These problems can be caused by improper grading of land, poor soil drainage, slope obstructions, and/or subsidence, among other things. In order to remedy these issues, you may need to excavate around your home and do some landscaping, or you might want to contact a basement waterproofing professional to complete some modifications to your existing design. You can choose to seal the perimeter of your yard to prevent moisture from getting inside your yard, or you can use a combination of various basement waterproofing methods.

Sealing your yard will help prevent surface water from getting into your basement. It will also keep insects, rodents, and other unwanted organisms out. However, sealing the perimeter of your yard will not necessarily prevent or fix structural damage caused by water intrusion. You must repair or replace foundation footings, doors, windows, and roofs to solve the problem. This type of structural damage requires an experienced contractor, and most times cannot be solved with a do-it-yourself project.

Most interior cracks in basement walls can be repaired using a combination of mortar and sump Pumping systems. This pumping system can be used to prevent water from coming in on the interior of your home and pump excess water out to the exterior of your home. Cracks found on basement floors should be repaired immediately, as this poses a very dangerous situation for your family. If a small hole is not present, repair a larger area using Epoxy cement. This type of repair job will fill up any tiny cracks and protect your floors against future water entry.

Cracks that are not large can be filled using an epoxy filler. When you have a large crack, fill it using mortar before filling it with concrete or grout. All exterior cracks in walls should be repaired immediately. Smaller exterior water damage problems, like seeping water in from outside, can usually, be fixed with exterior sealants and repairs, but larger water damage problems should be addressed by a licensed contractor.

To protect your basement and home from water damage, it is crucial to address any drainage problems promptly and utilize effective waterproofing methods. Whether you choose to take preventive measures yourself or hire a professional, safeguarding your property against moisture is essential to maintaining its structural integrity and safety. Regular inspections and timely repairs will ensure a dry and secure basement environment. For more expert advice on basement waterproofing and maintenance, check out our blog. If you need personalized assistance or a professional consultation, feel free to contact us today.