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Basement Leaks can come from several different sources. Indoor humidity can cause the water to seep into the basement, while outdoor sources can saturate the soil surrounding the foundation. If no basement waterproofing has been installed, moisture will ultimately find a way into a basement, cellar or any other underground space in a property. Basement leaks can also occur if the waterproofing system has been installed incorrectly or the wrong type of system has been used. If there are any patches of mold or mildew on the ceiling, foundation, or walls of the basement, then this indicates there is moisture in the walls somewhere.
Wet or damp basements can occur in both old and new buildings, and it’s critical to address the problem quickly. If left untreated, a wet basement could become a structural liability.
SIGNS OF BASEMENT LEAKS
- Saturated base of concrete walls (a ring of dampness)
- Damp air and musty smell
- Mould or mildew
- Cracks or Crumbling
- Efflorescence staining
- Standing water
- Flaking or peeling paint
- Wood Rot
- Sinking or uneven floor
CAUSES OF BASEMENT LEAKS
- Cracking is one of the most common causes of water leaking into a basement wall. Improperly sealed concrete is porous causing it to absorb groundwater, combined with the hydrostatic pressure from the groundwater outside which can wear down the integrity of basement walls.
- Pipe Leaks, cracks and blockages are again one of the most common sources of moisture in basements. Inadequate insulation can be the cause of burst pipes causing dampness behind the walls.
- Windows and stairwell doors installed at basement level that have been improperly sealed can be the cause of basement leaks, particularly after heavy rainfall.
- Rain and water pools around the foundation of a building after rainfall that hasn’t been properly waterproofed can be the cause basement leaks. If there is insufficient drainage or sloping to direct water away from the structure, water will accumulate against the foundation and eventually make its way inside.
- Gutters and downpipes should be in place to direct rainwater away from the foundation of a building. If those gutters and downpipes are missing, or not functioning properly, rainwater is often directed towards the foundation. As water drains towards the structure, it can accumulate in the soil around it. Inadequate insulation to places where condensation builds up can cause moisture in a basement. Basement condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes in contact with cool basement walls and floor. As the walls cool the warm air, moisture is created.
Have you noticed signs of water damage in your basement? We have specialist surveyors and leak detection experts who can investigate and trace the source of the leak in your basement and provide recommendation for repair to prevent future damage. Contact us for more information.
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