Noticing water in your basement can be a cause of alarm for homeowners. Water damage can be expensive to fix so catching problems early will save you a lot of time and energy.
Here are the five most common causes of basement leaks in homes:
Interior Leaks
When you notice a leak in your basement, your first step should be to find out where it’s coming from. Is the leak happening under the kitchen or bathroom? The culprit may be an interior leak. Interior leaks are usually the easiest water problems to solve—turning off the water to that appliance and sealing or getting a new pipe can usually solve the problem.
If you’re still having basement leaks that don’t have an interior cause, it’s time to inspect your home.
Cracked Foundation
Cracks in the foundation of your home can introduce water into the basement. If this is the case, call a professional to determine if the cause of the cracking is from structural issues or hydrostatic pressure. Missouri Basement will inspect your home and provide professional wall and foundation repair, as well as waterproofing.
Clogged Gutters
Yes, clogged gutters can cause water to leak into your basement! The purpose of gutters is to divert water coming off of your roof and away from your home’s foundation. To prevent this from happening, make sure that you regularly inspect your gutters for debris and damage.
Dysfunctional Window Wells
Window wells are a common source for leaky basements and like gutters, play a big role in diverting rainwater away from your foundation. When these get clogged with leaves and debris, it can cause water to build up and leak into your basement. Like your gutters, keep these clean and maintained.
Ineffective Drain Tile And Sump Pump
If your basement drains and sump pump isn’t working correctly, water cannot exit your basement. Your sump pump, a device installed at the lowest point in the home , keeps your basement dry by removing water collected in the sump pit and depositing it in a nearby storm drain, dry well, or detention pond.
When you see water buildup, get your sump pump inspected by a professional. They will figure out the problem and fix it.