You’ve probably heard the saying, “When it rains, it pours.” And if your house isn’t waterproof, the water will find a way inside your home.
A problem in your basement can result in leaks after a downpour. Basement leaks may affect the state of the walls and floorings in your house. Much worse, it can result in a mold build-up, which can seriously affect your family’s health.
It’s essential to understand the possible cause of your leak to find the appropriate solution. This article will cover some of the common reasons why basements can leak after heavy rain and discuss a few simple ways to fix the common problem.
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Possible Reasons Why Your Basement Leaks in Heavy Rain
Determining the reason why your basement leaks after heavy rain is relatively easy. Once you have identified the causes of your basement leak, prepare yourself to spend some money to get it fixed. While solving the issue on your own can be beneficial, it is recommended to hire a professional for the job to save you valuable time. An experienced contractor will have comprehensive knowledge and the proper tools to repair the leak.
Below are the possible reasons why your basement leaks in heavy rain:
Hydrostatic Pressure
If you notice water leaks in your basement floor, the problem may be due to the concrete used as a foundation for your home. But how did it happen?
The concrete of your home’s foundation absorbs water like a sponge, and we all know that a sponge swells and becomes heavy when saturated with water. The same thing happens to the concrete of your home’s foundation.
Eventually, the foundation will need to drain, causing water seepage in the basement. This occurrence is called hydrostatic pressure or water pressure.
Lateral Pressure
Another form of water pressure that causes structural damage to your basement is lateral pressure. The water coming from the gutter causes the soil to expand and put pressure on your basement walls.
Lateral pressure causes damage to the floor or the wall foundation in your basement, which increases the possibility of water seeping in the basement.
Window Well Issue
A window well issue is a common cause of basement seepage. Though windows allow natural light and fresh air in the basement, they can also collect water.
You can quickly identify if the basement leak is due to a window well issue because the water will be coming through the window frames. Since basements are usually beneath ground level, water will always find a way to get in, even in the narrowest cracks and holes. Ensure your basement has window drains that will prevent water from coming in.
Existing Damages with the Foundation
If your home was built many years ago, it is more likely your basement has acquired cracks or holes over time. Any damage or hole will only help the water from coming through the walls and flooring of your basement, so it is essential to diagnose the problem and get it fixed as soon as you notice it.
Cove Joint
Another common reason for a leaking basement after heavy rain is a cove joint. Homes built ten years ago have basement walls and floors with small gaps in them. If you have water stains on your basement floors or walls, they may be a result of stress fractures or deteriorated concrete along the basement’s cove joints.
Clogged Gutters and Downspout Issues
Keep water from flooding your foundation by installing a downspout that will safely redirect the water to a specific drainage area away from your home.
It is essential to also regularly check your gutters. If your gutters are clogged, water may gather in puddles and can soak your foundation, leading to damage and other issues such as cracks, soil erosion, and basement leaks.
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Prevent Water Seepage in Basement after Rain
When it comes to water leaks, prevention is better than a cure. Once you solve your current basement leak issues, take appropriate measures to prevent basement leaks from reoccurring. The solution to your basement leak problem will vary depending on the cause.
Below are some of the best ways to prevent basement leaks in heavy rain:
Get Rid of the Water
Getting rid of the water is the most obvious approach to resolve a basement leak, but keep in mind it does not address the main reason for a leaking basement after heavy rain.
This solution is meant to avoid damaging your stuff and pieces of furniture in your basement, especially to keep them from acquiring mold and other bacteria. You can eliminate the water two ways: By using a sump pump or a dehumidifier.
Clean Your Gutters
If you want to avoid water from pooling in your foundation, maintain the cleanliness of your gutter. We recommend cleaning your gutters twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall, but the climate and the number of trees near your home may require you to clean your gutters more frequently.
Secure Window Well Seal
If the cause of water seepage in your basement is its window well, then you may directly address the problem by sealing it with appropriate products.
Landscape Your yard
Landscaping in your yard can help keep the pressure off of your basement walls. Create a slope that will keep the water away from your home’s foundation.
Hire a Professional Basement Waterproofing Company
You can perform some waterproofing solutions yourself, but some of them may require hiring a professional to resolve the issue. By hiring a professional, the problem can be fixed with efficiency and effectiveness.
Professional basement waterproofing companies provide both interior and exterior waterproofing. They can install a basement waterproofing system and manage sump pump installation and repair.
If you are considering waterproofing your basement, don’t look any further than MT Drains & Professionals! Our team of experts understands your needs, and we are more than willing to help you solve and prevent future basement leaking issues. Call us today at (905) 761-5551 for a free home consultation and estimate!