What Causes Seepage from Basement Floor Cracks?
Whether your basement has standing water, seeping water through cracks or just a musty odor - any level of unwanted water could jeopardize your home's structure as well as your health.
If you've experienced a wet basement, you know how much of a hassle it is. You have to deal with replacing damaged carpet and furniture and worry about potential mold growth. If you use your basement for storage or extra living space, it's important to understand the effects of water problems and how the presented solution will alleviate future problems.
So why do basement floors leak, and how can homeowners protect their homes against basement floods? There are several factors that cause leaks, but the most …show more content…
This is usually caused by heavy rains, the type of soil or the proximity of bodies of water. As the water table rises, the hydrostatic pressure increases. In turn, this causes structural damage such as wall and foundation cracks.
- Malfunctioning Sump Pump
Malfunctioning or broken sump pumps can create a high water table beneath the basement floor. If the drain pipes are not functioning properly, water can accumulate in the sump basin or seep through floor cracks. Make sure your sump pump is regularly inspected to avoid clogged lines and other problems.
- Improperly Working Drain Tile
Today's homes are built with a drain tile that is wrapped around the perimeter of the basement. It consists of a perforated pipe and surrounded by gravel. This system is pretty sturdy but can be damaged by outside elements. In older homes, the drain tile is more susceptible to failure because it is made from clay crocks wrapped in felt roofing paper.
- Window Wells Leak
When your water drainage system is malfunctioning, water may accumulate around the window wells. Usually, clogged gutters are a common source of water-related problems so it is important to keep them clean. Also, install downspout extensions to divert water away from the window wells.
Waterproofing A Basement with
Whether your basement has standing water, seeping water through cracks or just a musty odor - any level of unwanted water could jeopardize your home's structure as well as your health.
If you've experienced a wet basement, you know how much of a hassle it is. You have to deal with replacing damaged carpet and furniture and worry about potential mold growth. If you use your basement for storage or extra living space, it's important to understand the effects of water problems and how the presented solution will alleviate future problems.
So why do basement floors leak, and how can homeowners protect their homes against basement floods? There are several factors that cause leaks, but the most …show more content…
This is usually caused by heavy rains, the type of soil or the proximity of bodies of water. As the water table rises, the hydrostatic pressure increases. In turn, this causes structural damage such as wall and foundation cracks.
- Malfunctioning Sump Pump
Malfunctioning or broken sump pumps can create a high water table beneath the basement floor. If the drain pipes are not functioning properly, water can accumulate in the sump basin or seep through floor cracks. Make sure your sump pump is regularly inspected to avoid clogged lines and other problems.
- Improperly Working Drain Tile
Today's homes are built with a drain tile that is wrapped around the perimeter of the basement. It consists of a perforated pipe and surrounded by gravel. This system is pretty sturdy but can be damaged by outside elements. In older homes, the drain tile is more susceptible to failure because it is made from clay crocks wrapped in felt roofing paper.
- Window Wells Leak
When your water drainage system is malfunctioning, water may accumulate around the window wells. Usually, clogged gutters are a common source of water-related problems so it is important to keep them clean. Also, install downspout extensions to divert water away from the window wells.
Waterproofing A Basement with