Having water in your basement is stressful, and basements are uniquely prone to water issues. Though it can be easy to ignore, the basement is an essential part of your home, and any moisture issues could mean structural damage in the days to come. It’s important to understand the causes of basement water damage to recognize the signs and take action to protect your home. In this blog, we will outline the details of water issues in the basement and how you can waterproof it.
What are the Causes of Moisture in the Basement?
Basements tend to be damp as they lie below the ground level, and many homeowners have to deal with a moist basement at least once in their lifetime. While some of the causes may be obvious, such as rainfall flooding and plumbing disasters, there are often subtle signs of water damage that can save you money if you recognize them ahead of time.
Here is a walkthrough of the sources that lead to a wet and damaged basement:
1. Foundation Cracks
While multiple underlying issues lead to foundation cracks, one of the main reasons is expansive soil below your home’s foundation. Soil expands when the water content is high, causing the foundation to shift upwards. Similarly, if the soil’s moisture level is low, it shrinks, which results in foundation settlement and can cause cracks and leaks.
Your foundation can also crack if contractors use low-quality materials during the initial construction. Standing water due to recent floods can also cause crack formation. When cracks are left untreated, water easily finds its way into your home’s basement, making it moist and structurally weak.
2. Plumbing Leaks
If pipes are running through your basement, you need to pay extra attention to them. A minor leak can cause havoc if you do not address it in time. Moreover, during the winter, if you do not insulate your pipes properly, they may freeze and cause leaks. One vital element of your plumbing system is the drain traps, which act as a barrier against dirt, debris, hair strands, or small objects. These traps are present under your sink, washing machine, or shower and prevent pipe clogs. If your plumbing traps are faulty, you can end up with a wet basement whenever you use your bathroom or your washing machine.
3. High Humidity Levels
Excess humidity in your basement is absolutely normal as it lies below the ground level. But you should not ignore it, because a humidity level above 50% can lead to mold growth. When mold and mildew flourish, you may suffer from multiple health problems. Mold can also damage your belongings and furniture. High humidity in your basement usually results from moisture infiltration from sources like internal leakage, foundation cracks, and water seepage.
4. Improper Ventilation
If your basement has a poor ventilation system, it naturally becomes a breeding ground for mold, mildew, and pests due to high humidity. When airflow is restricted in your basement, the trapped humid air formed due to condensation leads to a damp basement, as well as musty odors and mold.
5. Poor Drainage Systems
When you have a poor drainage system, water easily enters your basement from both internal and external sources. If rainfall or groundwater does not properly drain away from your home, this can cause flooding, standing water, and mold growth. Poor drainage systems also allow hydrostatic pressure to build up and cause foundation issues.
6. Condensation Problems
If you have a wet basement due to condensation issues, it can be quite difficult to identify the problem because it is not as visible as standing water or flood. Condensation occurs when humid, warm air comes into contact with cold surfaces, such as the basement walls, floors, or ceilings. This causes condensation, which increases moisture levels in the basement. Due to high humidity, you may notice sweaty pipes, damp furniture, or foggy windows in your basement.
How You Can Protect Your Basement: Prevention Techniques
Depending on the problem and the underlying source of moisture, there are several ways to protect your basement. Here are some proven ways to proactively protect your basement and prevent water damage.
Check Your Landscaping and Lawn Grading
If your yard slopes toward your home instead of away from it, your basement is going to flood. Water will always travel the path of least resistance, and when it rains, all of that water needs a place to go. If your yard is sloped toward your home, water will run toward your foundation and pool around your foundation. Any leaks or cracks in your foundation will allow water to seep into your home. When the ground around the foundation becomes too saturated, the soil will expand, pushing on your foundation. If you notice that your lawn is graded towards your home, consider changing your landscaping to protect your basement and foundation.
Keep Your Rain Gutters Clear
Sticks, leaves, dirt, and all other sorts of debris tend to find their way into rain gutters. If the gutters are not regularly cleaned, the debris can cause blockages. Blockages will cause water to overflow, pool around the foundation, and potentially flood your basement. To prevent any clogs or blockages in your gutters, you should clean them out in the spring and then again in the fall.
Maintain Downspouts
A lot of downspouts end right above the ground around the foundation. If this is the case, then add some length to your downspouts so that the water is directed further away from the perimeter of your home (at least 3 feet, but more if possible). You should direct water toward lawn areas that are graded away from your home so that water does not flow back toward your foundation.
Top Basement Waterproofing Methods
If you ignore even a small amount of water in your basement, it can cause havoc in the future. Even if you don’t use your basement every day, it’s important to keep it dry. Moisture problems can result in declining indoor air quality, leading to serious respiratory health problems, and weakening your home’s foundation, ultimately leading to structural damage.
Below are some failsafe basement waterproofing methods that can help you keep your basement safe and dry.
At American Eagle Professional Services Inc., we offer a wide range of basement waterproofing solutions to strengthen your home’s structural integrity and safeguard your property.
1. Sump Pump and Battery Backup System
If your basement doesn’t already have a sump pump, you should consider installing one. By installing a sump pump in your basement, you can prevent rainwater from flooding your basement. Sump pumps remove water that seeps into your basement and pumps it out and away from the foundation.
Pros
- Effectively prevents basement flooding after heavy rain
- Pumps excess water away from your basement
- A reliable solution for water infiltration issues
- Self-activating whenever water levels rise
Cons
- It may require excavation to install
2. Exterior Waterproofing Techniques
You can waterproof your basement from the outside to prevent water from getting in. Exterior walls can be sealed with a waterproof membrane or sealant, blocking water from damaging your home. Exterior waterproofing may also include installing a French drain.
Pros
- Solves the underlying issues of water damage
- Effective defense mechanism against hydrostatic pressure
Cons
- Does not necessarily address humidity issues when you waterproof the basement from the outside
- Labor-intensive process
- Requires access to the exterior foundation walls
3. Interior Waterproofing Solutions
If you notice peeling paint, dark patches, mold growth, and cracks all over your basement walls, you need to implement interior basement waterproofing solutions. These measures help you control moisture effectively by fixing water issues in your basement interiors. We use effective basement waterproofing techniques that include SafeEdge™, SafeDrain™, Multi-FlowTM Drain Tile, Pro Sump Pumps, and Aprilaire dehumidifiers.
Pros
- Does not require wide-spread excavation most of the time
- Easy installation process, usually completed within a few days
- Addresses humidity issues like mold growth and pest infestation
- Evacuate any water that seeps into your basement
Cons
- Does not address exterior drainage issues
4. Sealants and Coatings Application
Sealants, epoxy, and resin can effectively manage moisture issues in external and internal areas. These sealants form a protective layer and work as a barrier against water to maintain a dry and mold-free basement.
Pros
- Proactive solution to avoid basement water issues
- Less expensive than other solutions
- Easily accessible and repairable
Cons
- Does not fix the underlying causes of moisture issues
5. Foundation Crack Injections
If your foundation has cracks, crack injections can effectively seal them. With precise sealing, you will not have to worry about water leaks and moisture buildup in your basement.
Pros
- Does not need external excavation
- It can be completed in a few hours
Cons
- Crack injections are insufficient to treat larger cracks
- May not treat the root cause of water infiltration
Which Basement Waterproofing Method is Most Effective?
One size does not fit all when treating basement issues. Some basements may have issues that require sump pumps; others may only need crack repairs. The best solution can only be determined by having an expert visit your home for an inspection. Our technicians will determine the most effective solution using a combination of our effective basement waterproofing solutions.
Advantages of Basement Waterproofing
High-quality, comprehensive basement waterproofing can provide you with a dry, safe space long-term. Here are some other benefits of waterproofing your basement.
Stronger Foundation
Drainage and waterproofing systems keep water out of your home and away from your foundation. A waterproofed basement prevents flooding or standing water, helping you avoid cracks or damage in the future.
Lowers Energy Bills
If your basement is damp, causing moist air to circulate in your home, your HVAC system will have to work harder to keep up. With a dry basement, your air conditioner or furnace will easily maintain a comfortable temperature without inflating your electricity bills.
Increased Property Value
If you are thinking of selling your home in the future, waterproof your basement as soon as possible. Waterproofing protects your home from damage, maintains its value, and ensures that the basement is an attractive, usable space.
Improved Health
If you have unexplained allergies and skin irritation, they may be caused by irritants in a wet basement, such as mold and other bacteria. Waterproofing your basement will help restore your air quality and protect your family’s health.
Prevents Mold Growth and Pest Infestation
Mold and other bacteria do not thrive in a dry basement. Sealing our basement with waterproofing solutions can eliminate pest infestations and stale or musty smells.
Reduced Risk of Flood
When your basement is dry and has robust waterproofing systems, you don’t have to worry about water seeping in even after consistent heavy rain or snowfall. A sump pump and drainage system will protect your basement and divert water away from your home, reducing any risk of standing water or flooding.
Waterproof Your Basement Today
While basement waterproofing is a rigorous job, finding a company that provides the best waterproofing solutions doesn’t have to be. American Eagle Professional Services, Inc. is here to solve all of your basement issues with our wide range of services. Call us now to schedule a free inspection of your basement and get a quote for basement waterproofing.
