A wet, leaky basement is a common problem. Basements are underground, making them especially susceptible to water, but that doesn’t mean it’s a problem that should be ignored. When faced with a wet or leaky basement, here are a few things you need to know.
Signs of a Leaky Basement
There are a number of obvious and not-so-obvious signs of a water problem in the basement.
Here are just a few:
- Visible water. This is an easy one. Don’t ignore it!
- Water stains. If you see discoloration or water stains on the floor or walls, it may mean you have a problem.
- Odor. A musty or mildewy smell in the basement may mean there’s a leak or moisture buildup.
- Mildew or mold. These often harmful growths thrive in humid areas, so if you see them, it may indicate a water problem.
- Efflorescence. This occurs when the water leaves behind salt deposits, causing a white or gray ash stain on the walls.
- Spalling. Spalling occurs when concrete or stone peels right off of the walls. This indicates water damage and requires professional service.
Causes of a Leaky Basement
There are countless ways that water can find its way into your home and leak into your basement, and it’s not always easy to determine the source of the problem. Check out these few causes of leaky basement.
Here are a few things to check out:
- Plumbing. Sometimes the water in your basement isn’t due to a foundation problem. Rather, the leak or moisture is coming from defective plumbing in walls or ceilings. The water eventually finds its way to the lowest point in your home, the basement. Call a plumber if you see a wet patch of drywall on the ceiling or suspect this is the problem.
- Leaking windows. If your basement has windows, make sure they completely seal without gaps, holes, or cracks. Any defects in the windows could allow water to leak in and cause problems.
- Cracks in the basement walls or floor. Water in the soil around your basement may seep into the basement through cracks. If you notice cracks in the walls, floors, or foundation, call an expert at KC Waterproofing and Foundation Repair. We’ll be happy to take care of it for you.
- External water sources. A number of external water sources can cause basement leaks. Check your downspouts, and ensure they are directed away from your foundation. Clear your gutters regularly to stop improper water runoff. And examine your soil grading, as downslopes toward your home may inadvertently drain water right into your basement.
How To Fix A Leaky Basement?
If you notice any of the above signs, try to isolate and stop the water source. Repair downspouts, gutters, and defective plumbing along with regrading your yard to improve drainage.
The best way to deal with a leaky basement is to rely on a professional. KC Waterproofing and Foundation Repair are well-equipped to deal with all types of basement and foundation problems and eliminate your water problem.
Leaky Basement Cracks
With all of the rain lately, your basement is probably having some problems keeping all of the water out. Even a well-built basement can have problems keeping out water in flooding conditions. Most homes are not built to withstand flooding. However, most of our homes are built to withstand some degree of water coming in. If you are seeing leaky basement cracks, you need basement waterproofing. Do not let what seems to be a small problem get worse. You could end up with foundation problems that cost a lot more to resolve.
How To Fix Basement Cracks?
If there is any foundation damage or mold or mildew, this will need to be taken care of before any other work is performed. The mold and mildew will be cleaned up, and then we can check out the foundation to see if it is failing. Depending on the problem, the foundation may have carbon fiber strips used inside the home or it might have push piers or helical piers on the exterior of the home that supports it.
There are a few options in terms of waterproofing your basement. Once the foundation problem is resolved, we would seal the crack. From there, we want to make sure that your basement is protected from any water that wants to make its way in. We would work to install either a drainage system that leads to your sump pump and/or a vapor barrier system that seals out moisture. A sump pump is a must in situations where you are seeing water frequently in your basement. Sump pump installation frees your mind from worry knowing that you will be protected in the event that water comes into the home. Lastly, a dehumidifier will keep moisture at bay.
Can I Ignore It?
In a word, no! Basement leaks and foundation issues may not be an expensive problem, they can worsen, which means problems for your home as well as your pocketbook. If you suspect an issue, contact KC Waterproofing and Foundation Repair today.
Visit our Ultimate Guide to Waterproofing Your Kansas City Home for more articles that will help you keep the basement of your Kansas City Metro area home dry and strong.
Working hard in Basement Waterproofing and Foundation Repair for Johnson County, Kansas residents, including Fairway, Stillwell, Bonner Springs, Lake Quivira, Bashor, Paola, and more!
What Are the Next Steps?
Notice a leaky basement crack and don’t know what to do next? Put away the DIY fix! Call the professionals at KC Waterproofing and Foundation Repair for a free estimate. We will give you an idea of the root problem, your options for repair, and an estimate of the cost. Our highly trained team is ready to answer any questions that you have, and we will leave your property as good as or better than when we arrived. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an estimate.
