Water issues are some of the most annoying inconveniences for homeowners. Some water issues are simple fixes, like basic plumbing leaks or overwatering landscape. Others require professional expertise and tools that the average homeowner may not possess. For instance, grading, foundation cracks, and drainage capacity are something professional contractors know more about and can resolve appropriately.
With that, here are some reasons to answer the question, “How does water get into my crawlspace or basement?” Water issues are not something to neglect and can lead to serious consequences pertaining to your health and safety. If you suspect any of these issues in your basement or crawlspace, call a professional repair team immediately.
Negative Grading
Grading refers to the level of property around your home and in which direction the water will flow for the groundwater. Grading should be positive as this indicates water slopes away from your foundation. Negative grading indicates the ground slopes towards your home, which leads to water flowing to your basement or crawlspace. From there, water will seep into any preexisting cracks in the foundation. This can further weaken the foundation and lead to flooding and extensive water damage. Be sure to call a professional repair service for grading issues immediately.
Gutter Issues
Your gutter system is another issue that can lead to water in your basement. As rainwater collects on the roof, it trickles down to the gutter and then the downspout. Downspouts should face away from the foundation so as not to weaken the ground surrounding it. Similarly, as snow and ice melt, the same effect occurs. Of course, if you have debris in your gutters, it can cause a disruption. Tree branches, leaves, bird nests, and other natural debris cause clogs, which leads to an overflow. Instead of going down your downspout, the water pools and travels down your siding, which can cause flooding in your crawlspace or basement. Additionally, if your downspouts don’t face away from the house or face clogs or breaks, they will pour rainwater on the foundation instead. Unclogging gutters or downspouts is a simple DIY project, but if your gutters or downspouts are broken, then you should call a gutter repairman to fix it.
Broken Window Wells
Anyone with a basement has window wells or vent wells as emergency entrances or escapes for homeowners and first responders. They also prevent moisture damage to the basement. Vent-wells further allow space for foundation vents. In either case, improperly designed or broken window and vent wells are significant problems for water damage. There should be several inches of surrounding soil to secure the foundation. Any gaps around this area are an opening for water to seep into your basement or crawlspace. Make sure to clean the drains regularly to avoid flooding. Debris often collects in window wells, which clog drains. If you notice water in your basement after a heavy storm, that’s likely why. It helps to have coverage over or surrounding your window wells and vent wells to protect against water runoff. This can also help protect against pests.
Plumbing Issues
Of course, water issues occur inside the home too. Improper plumbing systems are some of the worst contenders in water-related basement issues. Broken or leaky pipes or fixtures are some notable examples. A leaky pipe is often easy to fix as this requires a quick patch or tightening of the bolts. Still, if you experience a burst pipe from freezing weather or a disturbance in the drainpipe, you must call a plumber to investigate and repair it. They have the tools and experience to handle all serious plumbing issues so you can avoid any future plumbing issues.
Overwatering
Many homeowners want a beautiful landscape. Given that your curb appeal greatly influences your property’s market value, you want to do your part to maintain its green aesthetic. Still, overwatering is an easy ticket to water damage on your foundation. Mainly, make sure you water away from your home. While having flower beds and other greenery near your home is important, if you’re using a standard sprinkler system, it’s best to place these away from the foundation. You should manually water any adjacent landscaping with a hose or watering can to ensure you’re not overwatering. Otherwise, you risk flooding your crawlspace and basement if unchecked.
Gaps in Foundation
Naturally, gaps in your foundation are one of the most typical ways how water gets into your crawlspace or basement. When unchecked, these gaps can increase over time. Foundation issues relate to sinking, shifting, or settlement, each of which exposes your property to greater issues with the ground soil. Most commonly, excess water or moisture levels permeate the ground soil, furthering flooding, mold, and water damage. While you can manage minor cracks yourself with n epoxy sealant, larger cracks or spider-web cracks indicate a serious concern with your foundation that only professionals can resolve.
Small Drainage Capacity
Lastly, there may simply be not enough drainage capacity for your drainage system. It’s atypical for contractors to install the wrong drainage system, but it happens especially during rushed projects. If this is the case, there is too much water for your sump pump to handle, leading to water pools. Eventually, these pools will seep into your basement and crawlspace, causing wood rot, mold, and other foundational grievances.
Fortunately for you, The Crack Guys have the knowledge, experience, and tools to tackle any crawlspace or basement water issues. Check out our basement encapsulation services to protect your foundation. If your basement or crawlspace has horizontal or vertical wall cracks, mold, condensation, musty odors, pest infestations, or soft, wet spots on the walls, you have water damage. The proper thing to do is call us to resolve this issue right away—and we’re the best in the business to do it.
Our waterproofing techniques involve updating the sump basin and pump, PVC piping, drain tract systems, and an update to the concrete perimeter. Don’t be afraid to call us with any questions. We’re here to ensure your home remains in top condition in the safest ways possible. Get a free basement waterproofing estimate today!
