How To Prevent Water From Entering Basements

Basement water is a problem. There are many ways water can get into your basement, including through foundation walls or through the floor. We’ll discuss the causes and signs of water seepage to basements. We will also discuss how to prevent basement water leaking and keep it from your basement.

What are the Signs of Water in the Basement?

The most obvious indicator that there is a problem with your basement is standing water. You may also notice other signs that your basement is waterlogged. You should check for water every few days, especially after heavy rains or fast winter thaws.

• Efflorescence – Make your basement walls sparkle! This powder, which is a sparkling white powder, is called efflorescence. This is when water seeps through foundation walls and dries.
• Musty Odors- Does your basement smell? Unpleasing odors after rain can be a sign of basement leaks.
• Mold – Do you have mold problems? Mold can grow on floors and walls if they get wet. Also, mold can be found on flooring and walls.
• Colors Are your floors, walls and ceilings stained? Basement water can cause dark spots or yellowish-brown marks.

What Causes Water In The Basement?

Your basement could have water for many reasons. It is the lowest point in a home, and water can easily accumulate there. The basement walls and floor are where water pipes and sewer lines run. Water can also seep through foundation walls and floors.

Broken Basement Floors Or Walls

Cracks in basement floors and walls can be a problem. Even if basement walls aren’t cracked, water can seep through them. Water can also seep between the foundation walls and the floor.

Leaky Or Broken Pipes

Leakage or a burst in the basement’s foundation walls could cause severe damage. Leakage of water or drain pipes can also occur, but this is much less common.

Poor Drainage Around Your Home


Water should drain from your basement to keep it dry. If your gutters or landscaping aren’t clear, water can build up around your foundation. Cracks and worn-out waterproofing can allow water to seep into your basement.

Open Floor Drains


Open floor drains are another common source of water in basements. Water can back up into your home if the sewer lines are blocked. Although floor drains are more common for older homes than for newer ones they can still be found in some older homes.

Failure Of The Sump Pump

Sump pumps keep water out of your basement. The sump pumps channel the water into a reservoir and then pump it out. Basement flooding can result from a problem with the pump or heavy rainfall.

Water Heater Failed


Hot water tanks usually hold 30-50 gallons and heat for up to three to twelve years. You could have a water heater that is leaking or malfunctioning.

How To Keep Water Out Of Your Basement

There are many methods to stop water from entering your basement. This will prevent water damage. These repairs are easy to do on your own. Sometimes you may need help installing or waterproofing drainage systems.

1. Clean Your Gutters & Down Spouts

Your gutters and downspouts will channel all water that gets into your foundation. Water can build up in your basement if your gutters are blocked. Clogs can be prevented by cleaning your gutters and downspouts at least twice a year. You can add extensions to your downspouts if necessary so that water is directed away form your foundation. Check that your gutters are in good shape and secure.

2. Get A Good Lawn


Another way to prevent water from getting around your foundation is to inspect the landscaping. The foundation should be no more than three feet from the soil around your home. If your property slopes towards the home, you can add dirt. This will help water to flow away. You should ensure that your landscaping is at least six inches away from the foundation. You should keep basement water from leaking by planting bushes less than 2 feet from the foundation and trees not more than 3 feet from it.

3. Repair Cracks And Gaps

It is important to fix cracks and other problems in your basement immediately. This will prevent water from getting into it. For cracks in your foundation or floor, hydraulic cement is the best choice. You can use it even if the cracks are still wet. It can be used for foundation crack plugging. It is not as strong as the other. You can carve a V shape in the crack using a chisel or an angle grinder with a Masonry knife. Use a trowel to apply a thin layer hydraulic cement to crack. Press the cement to seal the crack.

4. Install A Drain Tile


If water is leaking into your basement, you may have to replace the drain tile. A damaged drain tile is usually the cause of water leaking from your floor. You may be able flush the drain tile or snake it but sometimes repairs are required. Because you will have to excavate part of your foundation, we recommend hiring a basement waterproofing company.

5. Install A Drainage System


Another way to stop basement water leaking is with a drainage system. Although there are many options available, a sump pump is the most cost-effective. A curtain stain is another option. A curtain drain is similar to a drain tiles and is placed at ground level around the foundation. It prevents water from reaching your basement. You will need to dig out the foundation in order to make these repairs. A waterproofing contractor is recommended.

6. Waterproof Your Walls

You can also waterproof basement walls to stop leakage. The basement walls can be waterproofed from the outside or the inside. A waterproofing product can be used to paint foundation walls. A waterproofing company is cheaper. They can waterproof your basement from outside, which provides superior protection. If you want to waterproof your basement yourself, first clean it. Start by removing any paint from the walls. Use a wire brush, vacuum or a vacuum cleaner to remove any loose paint. Repair any cracks. Brush the waterproofing material in all directions. Apply the waterproofing material to the foundation wall. You should not apply the waterproofing too thin to prevent basement leaks. Waterproofing basement walls will stop water from entering. Some interior products may still allow water to seep into your foundation, which can lead to it becoming weaker over time.

7. Get A Good Plumber


Most of the dangers associated with basement water are not within your home. A problem can also arise from water and drain pipes in your home. Basement leaks can be prevented by regular inspections of toilets, sinks bathtubs and showers. You should immediately fix any leaks and replace worn or damaged parts. To keep your basement clean and free of sewage and water, snake your sewers at least once a year. Most water departments provide free snaking services. Do not pour liquids or water into the sink. You should not pour liquids or water down the sink, even if you have a garbage disposal in your kitchen. You should not pour oils, starches, fats, or coffee grounds down the drain. They can block your sewers, causing backups. Only flush regular toilet paper and not the toilet paper. Flushable wipes don’t work as well as toilet paper so they should be avoided. When you are in the shower, use a hair catcher.

Who Do You Call To Remove Water From The Basement?

Is your basement flooding? Are your basement walls or carpets damaged by water from a storm? A water removal company is needed to quickly dry your house and remove water. Call us at (410) 280-7271 to report basement damage from a flood or leak. We offer emergency service and fast visual inspections 24 hours a days.