Potential Culprits of Basement Seepage and Leaks

Water in the basement is nearly every homeowner's nightmare. A wet or humid basement can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can cause health problems for you and your family. In addition, a damp basement can damage your belongings and weaken your home's foundation.



Property owners should proactively seek to find the source of any leaks or seepage in their basement and work to fix the problem as soon as possible. Discover the possible roots of basement leaks and seepage and how to prevent these issues.

Poor Grading and Drainage

When water seeps into the ground around your foundation, the moisture can eventually make its way into your basement if there is no proper drainage to direct the water away from your home. Therefore, ensure you have well-graded soil around your foundation that slopes away from your house, as well as a solid drainage system.

If you suspect poor grading and drainage are to blame for your basement leaks, you'll need to hire a professional to assess the situation and make any necessary changes. Sometimes, simply re-grading the soil around your home can solve the problem. In other cases, you may need to install an exterior drainage system, such as a French drain, to direct water away from your foundation.

Cracks in Your Foundation

Cracks in your foundation are one of the most common causes of basement leaks and seepage. Over time, your home's weight can cause cracks in the foundation walls or floor. These cracks can allow water to enter your basement.

If you see any cracks in your foundation, have the cracks repaired as soon as possible by a professional. Different repair methods may be used depending on the cracks' size and location. For example, small hairline cracks can be filled with epoxy. Larger cracks may require using polyurethane and sealants to prevent further water seepage into the foundation.

Faulty Sump Pump

A sump pump is installed in the basement's lowest part to remove water accumulated in the sump pit. The sump pump works by pumping the water out of the pit and away from your home.

If your sump pump is not working correctly, the issue may cause basement flooding. So, if you suspect your sump pump is not working correctly, seek professional help before the problem becomes a disaster.

A professional can test your sump pump to ensure it works correctly and make necessary repairs or adjustments.

Clogged Gutters and Downspouts

The gutters direct rainwater away from your home to prevent water damage. However, if the gutters or downspouts are clogged, the water will not be able to drain properly and may back up against your foundation. This issue can cause leaks and seepage in your basement.

To prevent this problem, regularly clean your gutters and downspouts and ensure the components are debris-free. In addition, inspect the gutters for any damage, such as holes or cracks, and have the damage repaired promptly.

Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure primarily results from water accumulated in the soil around your foundation. This water puts pressure on the foundation walls and can cause cracks, allowing water to enter your basement and causing leaks and seepage.

Hydrostatic pressure is not a quick fix. Seek professional help to find a solution because the problem likely requires some changes to be made to your drainage system. A professional can assess the situation and make the necessary changes to alleviate hydrostatic pressure on your foundation.

Basement leaks and seepage can cause extensive damage to your home if left unaddressed. Don't wait until it's too late. Instead, contact us at Central Penn Waterproofing for a timely assessment to establish the root cause of the leaks, and we'll provide an affordable and lasting solution.