Isolate the water source problem

One of the most common household problems is basement water which has been caused by leaks.

Most of the time the water leak will not damage your basement foundation, but it can do lots of damage to any items which have been stored in your basement as well as any flooring products you have installed. Besides the damage and inconvenience, another issue to consider while looking at basement leaks is the possibility of mold and mildew which can lead to harsh allergic reactions and other respiratory problems. As homes settle almost all basements will leak at some point.

When it comes time to sell your home, it is likely that the home inspector will locate a leak in your basement. This is unfortunate, as these leaks are largely preventable. Improper grading of the homes exterior which can allow the surfaces of patios and driveways to crack as they settle is the main cause of water seeping into your basement. Other major contributors to basement leaking are improper gutters and rain drainage. The good news is that it is fairly easy to prevent basement leakage. The first step is to find out if the home you are purchasing has ever had dampness or water in the basement and the source of that water. Knowing the water source is the first step in fixing the problem of basement leakage. There are three main sources of basement water: surface water, ground water, and other water.

Surface water usually comes from run off, rain, or snow which does not have proper drainage. The top four feet of soil are usually impacted by this type of water problem.

Ground water problems are the result of local water tables, springs, and rivers, and can be exacerbated by poor soil quality. While this type of problem can start at the ground surface it often runs down well past the level of your basement.

There are a number of different sources for other water problems, which can originate either inside or outside your home. These problems can include plumbing leaks, condensation, and temperature differences.

One of the first things to consider is whether your water problem usually shows up in connection with a heavy rain. Think about whether there is a certain area of the basement such as a window well or driveway which can be associated with your water problem.

It is much easier to begin repair or remodeling tasks once you have isolated the source of your problem. One important step is basement waterproofing, as it can help protect your home and prevent hassles down the line.

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