Leaks in Your Basement

The most common cause of a leaky basement is water coming in through the joint between the floors and the walls after a rain or snow melt.

The most common cause of a leaky basement is water coming in through the joint between the floors and the walls after a rain or snow melt. The common area for this to happen in is the corners. Water almost never comes up through a basement floor if the basement has been properly constructed. Hydrostatic pressure is caused by the build up of surface water around the foundation. This pressure pushes water in through the corners were the floor and walls meet.

Waterproofing Your Basement Waterproofing your basement will protect your home from this type of leaks. Basement waterproofing takes place both inside and outside your home. This first step is to look for areas around the outside of your home where water collects near the foundation. You always want water to flow away from your foundation. Make sure that your downspouts direct all water at least eight feet from your foundation and that gutters are in good condition and free from debris. You can prevent some leaks by ensuring that water is directed away from your homes foundation.

Curing a New Concrete Slab You get a denser and stronger concrete when water evaporation is slowed down during the curing process. You can use any sealing material as a curing sealer instead of using a temporary sealer or water mister. Capillaries will naturally develop in the concrete as it cures. After it has cured for at least 28 days you should apply two coats of a sealing material to both the slab and the walls. This bonds and strengthens the concrete while at the same time keeping vapor, radon, and water out of your basement. The mortar on concrete block walls should cure for at least 14 days before a sealer is added. Regularly check any joints or cracks in your concrete for leaks. One easy way to test for moisture leakage in your basement is to tape down the edges of a piece of aluminum foil with duct tape in an area where you suspect moisture. In a few days check back to see if any moisture is lurking under the aluminum foil.

Home page

Where to Find a Contractor
A place to get free quotes.

Creating Your Dream Basement
Tips and ideas

About Basement New Builds
Building a new home - here is information for your new basement.

Wet Basements, Fixes & Repairs
Different types of fixes for common basement problems.

Basement Windows
All about the basement window.

Disclaimers
Our contact and privacy information.