Leaky Basement

A leaky basement can be a difficult dilemma because there are so many possible causes for them. Fixing a leaking basement ranges from the easy and inexpensive to the complicated and expensive. Unless you are highly experienced in dealing with the problems of a leaky basement, it may be wise to consult a professional to find a cause of the leak and a solution for the problem quickly. Trying to pinpoint the cause and a subsequent solution can involve a lengthy trial and error process that can result in additional damage occurring while you try to find a solution for the problem.

Possible Causes of a Leaky Basement

If you find water in your basement, there are countless possibilities for the cause of the leak. This article will detail a few of the more common problems as well as touch on feasible solutions for the problems. Sump pumps that are not functioning correctly are one of the many causes of a leaky basement. A great deal of water around your sump pump can be an indication that your it is not working correctly; if it were working, it would be pumping the water out of the house rather than allowing it to pool. If the sump pump is the cause of your leaky basement, fixing or replacing the pump is necessary.

Improper grading can also lead to a leaky basement. The earth surrounding your house should slope gently away from the foundation of your house to encourage any water from rain, your sprinkler system or any other source to drain away from your house. Water that drains towards your house could allow the water to pool around your foundations and lead to leakage in your basement. If you find the grading of your land to be the source of your leaky basement, it is necessary to regrade the earth around your house so that it drains away from it.

Clogged or malfunctioning French drains can also cause leaks in the basement. French drains are intended to transport water away from your house. However, when these drains become clogged, they become inefficient and may not be effective for draining water away from your house. Their inefficiency may lead to a leakage in your basement as water accumulates around your foundation and begins to seep into the basement. If the drains are simply clogged, the solution could be as simple as cleaning the drains to remove debris that has accumulated and is preventing water from passing through the system. French drains that are malfunctioning may require more extensive maintenance than other types.