How does water enter the basement?
Moisture, dampness, and leaks in a basement or crawl space will create an unhealthy environment. Water seeks path of least resistance. As soils surrounding the foundation restrict drainage, hydrostatic pressure builds up against the basement wall and floor. This is typically the most common way water enters the basement. Poor soil drainage makes the problem worse, forming a “moat of water” around your house.
9 Ways Water Can Enter the Basement
- Through floor cracks from hydrostatic pressure.
- Through wall cracks & mortar joints.
- Through porous concrete (capillary action).
- Over footer from hydrostatic pressure.
- Under footer from hydrostatic pressure.
- High humidity by moisture through floor & walls.
- Basement window/window wells filling up.
- Through pipe penetrations like a sewer line or water line
- A bulkhead doorway
One of your first steps should be to make sure your basement is dry and safe.
You can do this by following our checklist.
CHECKS:
- Make sure your sump pump is working properly. Make sure the sump pump is plugged into a working electrical outlet. Test the outlet to make sure it has power
- Inspect basement windows and doors, make sure they are securely shut. If your basement windows are below grade, clean any debris around the windows.
- Check the grade around your foundation. It should slope away from the house to keep rainfall from collecting and pooling against foundation walls. Use sand bags or other debris to help divert the water away from your foundation.
- Clear loose and clogged rain gutters and downspouts. Extend downspouts away from the house and foundation. This will help limit roof water from collecting and pooling around the foundation. (Use precaution if using a ladder)
- If you own a generator, make sure it starts and you have fuel to operate it.
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Ground Water Control
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GrateDrain System
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Sump Pump Cleaning & Service
Extremely professional and able to cater to our specific application. Same with the crew, who arrived on time and were in and out in probably three hours. The final result was an immaculate, well designed and highly efficient sump pump system. I am no longer haunted by the loud and obnoxious clank. The first couple of days I found myself checking on the system to ensure it was still operating properly because it was so quiet. Very satisfied and would strongly recommend.
Steve H.
A couple of weeks ago I made a great investment in my house. I had my basement waterproofed. It saved me hours using my shop vac sucking up the water caused by the rain. Notice the 2 exit pipes, one is electric the other is battery powered so when the power goes out so does the water. — feeling thankful.
George S.
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