Since the basement is not always one of the most lived in parts of the home, it can sometimes be overlooked when it comes to maintenance and repairs. However, anyone who has ever dealt with a flooded basement or problems with moisture in the basement knows that prevention is much better than fixing expensive damage.
The first thing that homeowners need to understand is why basements leak. There are many reasons why this happens. One reason could be nn footer tiles or footer tiles that are malfunctioning. There may be cracks in the floor of the basement or in the walls that allow water to seep in. Nearby underground springs could be allowing water to enter the basement. If there is high humidity in the area where the homeowner lives, this can cause condensation in the basement. This causes serious moisture issues, including mold.
Another issue that may lead to basement leaks is sweating that comes from pipes that are located in the basement. Most basements have had some kind of waterproofing done in order to protect the basement, but if the waterproofing system was not installed properly, it could lead to moisture buildup and leaks. Hydrostatic pressure that builds up under the floor of the basement and even through the walls can also lead to basement leaks. As you can see, there are so many things that could lead to a leak in the basement.
Some homeowners have the mistaken idea that if they have a crawlspace then their basement is safe from leaks. However, crawlspaces leak too. They also get very moldy. So all of the problems that could take place in the basement are also likely to take place in a crawlspace as well.
It is extremely important for there to be a proper drainage system outside and inside of the home. This needs to be maintained. If you notice that the drainage system is backing up or not working properly, especially when it is the season for rain, you immediately want to call a professional to get help with the problem. It is good for you to know the kind of drainage system you have so that you can hire an individual who specializes in that type of work. For example, you may specifically look for French drain repair Erie Pennsylvania if this is the type of drain you have.
It is common for homeowners to try to repair basement leaks on their own. In some rare circumstances this may work. However, it is important for homeowners to understand that water is always going to follow the path of least resistance. So if you fix a leak in one spot, it is very likely that you are going to see a leak in another spot sooner than later. For this reason, having a professional waterproof the basement is essential.
