Finding the Source of the Leak: Leaky Basement Waterproofing

Walking down the isle of almost any hardware store in the summer, one will most likely find more than a dozen methods, solutions and quick fixes recommended for the best leaky basement waterproofing. No doubt some of these work, but assuming that the method advertised will automatically work for the wet basement problem being encountered at home is unwise. In fact, every one of these solutions will likely work for some time. The big question is whether they will work in the long term for the specific problem the basement has.

Finding the Source of the Leak

The first step in solving a problem is the research involved in finding its root cause. The symptoms might be the same, but the subtle differences in the way they appear will indicate the different causes of the leakage in the basement.

Generally, the leakage is caused by cracks in the concrete in the walls. These come from the lateral pressure that is exerted on the walls by the soil outside. When the soil absorbs extra water, it expands, and it is the lateral pressure from this expansion that eventually causes cracks in the walls.

The Various Symptoms That Contribute

However, it is not always that a leaky basement is caused by water seeping in. Sometimes, the humidity comes from condensation inside the basement, most of the time as a result of poor ventilation.

There are simple tests for determining the source of the wetness in the basement, and every reputable leaky basement waterproofing company will always conduct these tests before beginning its work.

Internal and External

Most people only think about internal leaky basement waterproofing solutions when dealing with a leaky basement. While this is not necessarily a bad thing, there is need for external solutions too.

When one seals the cracks on the inside walls, for instance, all they are doing is keeping the water from entering the room, and not dealing with the reason why the walls cracked in the first place. It is important to not only keep the water from entering the room, but to also keep it from seeping into the walls, where it is arguably more dangerous to the house.

Landscaping – A Point to Consider

Sometimes, the cause of the problem could be something one does not expect.

Basically, the fact that water does not flow away from the base of the house walls after rains or winter is cause for concern. Have the gutters and downspouts cleaned and directing the water a considerable distance away, and have the land immediately outside the home slanting away to direct water from the house foundation.