Is it possible for water to leak into a basement?
Water can leak into a basement from various points, each with their own cause and solution. In some cases, as with finished basements, you may need a professional to determine exactly what kind of water problem you have. We know how to identify where your leak is coming from — and how to fix it! Call us for a free basement waterproofing estimate!
How can I tell if there is a leak in my basement?
In not-so-obvious instances there two rules of thumb that can help determine whether a leak in the basement is a plumbing problem or a foundation leak: Quantity of water – A plumbing problem, particularly burst pipes, clogged fixtures and backed-up drains, usually results in a large amount of water in a short period of time.
Why does my basement leak in the Chicago area?
Clay soil, such as is common in the Chicago area, doesn’t drain as well and tends to absorb water and expand. his situation is worsened by the fact that a 10-foot wide area around the perimeter of the house is less compacted than other soil because it was the site of the original foundation excavation that was later backfilled.
What’s the difference between a foundation and basement leak?
A foundation leak, on the other hand, usually takes time to develop and enters the basement slowly, which is why it is most often described as “seepage.”
What to do with a leaky basement?
Here are a few relatively easy DIY solutions you can use to fix a leaky basement from the inside and outside: Replace Window Wells: Replacing old or rusted window wells will give water one less possible point of entry and keep the soil away from your window openings.
What to do after finding a basement leak?
- 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 is causing my basement to leak?
Hydraulic Pressure – The most common cause of basement leaks is pressure created by water in the soil surrounding your foundation. This can be caused by high water tables or excess moisture from heavy rains, drainage leaks, or melted snow.
Why is the basement leaking from the floor?
The primary reason why basements leak is due to Hydrostatic pressure. Ground water moves upward when the soil becomes saturated during heavy rains; pushes up from under the floor and makes its way in at the footer joint.
