Here are the four primary causes of basement water issues:
- The "clay bowl effect" is a primary cause of basement leaks. When a foundation is dug for a house, the soil is excavated, creating a bowl-shaped area where the foundation sits. ...
- When water builds up in the soil around the foundation, the excess water, and the denser soil puts pressure on the foundation. ...
- Window wells can be another cause of water leaks in the basement. ...
Full Answer
How to fix a basement leak from the inside?
Steps Download Article
- Inspect and identify source of leak (ie crack in the wall, leaking window, etc). Look carefully at organic surfaces such as wood, drywall, and carpets in a finished basement.
- Dig down 6 feet (1.8 m) to the foundation all around outside of the house. ...
- Pressure wash foundation and let it dry. ...
- Patch the cracks. ...
- Apply waterproofing paint sealer. ...
What causes a basement to leak?
These classic weak spots often leave small spaces open that can become leaks:
- Cove joints (where basement walls meet the floor)
- Mortar joints (which bind foundation blocks together)
- The tops of foundation walls
- The areas where pipes enter and exit a basement wall
Why is the basement leaking from the floor?
Why Do Basements Leak Where The Wall Meets The Floor?
- No interior or exterior waterproofing. If your home is older, you likely have little to on waterproofing on your basement exterior walls. ...
- Damaged basement waterproofing. If your basement does have interior or exterior waterproofing on the walls but you have leaks where the wall meets the floor, the waterproofing may be ...
- No sump pump. ...
How do I stop water from coming into my basement?
Basement Waterproofing Tips. 1) Check your gutters. 2) Install window well covers. 3) Ensure proper draining of your window wells. 4) Check the seams of your basement windows. 5) Apply a concrete sealer. 6) Install a drainage membrane. 7) Bring in the sump pump.
What does it mean when your basement floors are stained?
Floor Stains: If your floors are stained it could be an indication of water absorption from a leak. Drylock Flake: Basement foundations are built with porous materials, commonly concrete, and moisture and water can easily seep thru. Drylock (also known as Drylok) is a common waterproofing concrete sealant that's designed to keep water out ...
What is drylock sealant?
Drylock (also known as Drylok) is a common waterproofing concrete sealant that's designed to keep water out of your basement. However, if it's not properly applied (generally to surfaces that have not been adequately sealed) the product will bubble and eventually flake off.
Why is my basement leaking?
If you see any of the following, there's a good chance your basement is leaking: Mold and Mildew: Mold and mildew are often found near areas that have been exposed to moisture. Mold frequently has spores that can be inhaled. This can cause respiratory issues and trigger allergies.
What is efflorescence in concrete?
Efflorescence is typically seen on brick, concrete, and tiles. Minerals, such as salts, are carried by water thru masonry materials. As water passes thru the foundation's wall, the minerals within the water are dissolved within the masonry material.
What is seepage in a foundation?
Seepage: Water seepage frequently occurs when water is coming through cracks in the foundation or other porous material. It's quite common to see dampness or staining around floor cracks when seeping is taking place.
Why does my basement flood?
One of the more common causes of basement flooding is seen when water becomes trapped in the window well outside . When this happens, the pressure on the window and it's seals increases. When enough pressure builds, the seal eventually fails and water begins to seep or spill in causing a huge mess.
What does it mean when a wall rack is a wall rack?
Wall Cracks. A wall rack could be an indication that the foundation has settled and damage has occurred. When wall cracks happen in basements, there are 2 main types, and both can be the cause of seepage in your basement. Vertical or diagonal cracks: These types of cracks are common as your foundation ages.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure occurs when water seeps into the ground around the foundation and gradually builds up. The water buildup around the foundation puts pressure on walls and imperfect joints.
Clay Bowl Effect
In addition to pressure buildup, the “Clay Bowl” effect can also cause leaks. When building a foundation, builders dig a hole in the ground larger than the actual basement. After the foundation is built, the gap around the foundation is backfilled with excavated soil.
