If a big storm doesn’t set off an alarm bell in your head, you likely have never experienced waking up the next morning to an inch or more of water in the basement. For those of us who have, it’s an extreme hassle. From cleaning up the water, setting out dehumidifiers, and dealing with the lingering problems, this type of water seepage brings many problems. Sometimes it seems like there’s no way to even know where all this water is coming from. This is why it’s important to take preventative measures to protect your basement from water damage.

What is the cause of water seepage in the basement?

The main cause of a leaky basement is the build-up of water around the foundation. Built-up water eventually finds its way through basement walls, floors, and your foundation. This not only causes a leaky or flooded basement, but it can also cause serious foundation damage down the line. Problems associated with a leaking or flooded basement include damage to your foundation and possessions, poor air quality, and providing an environment for mold and insects to thrive. Other causes of a leaky basement can include improper drainage in the yard, gutters too close to the home, or badly sealed basement windows.

How do I stop my basement from leaking?

While there are some temporary fixes, the best way to solve your water seepage woes is to solve your underlying drainage and foundation issues. A temporary solution might work for a while, but the way to truly fix it is to understand that each of the issues is interconnected. For example, poor drainage in the yard could lead to cracks in the foundation. This could lead to more water pouring in. If you only seal the cracks in the plaster from the foundation, you are putting a bandage on something that needs stitches. A water seepage problem in the basement should begin to be fixed by addressing the foundation issues first. These are the most important problems because they affect the safety and integrity of your whole structure. Without this step, your leaky basement will not recover. The next thing to do is seal cracks in the wall and windows. After that, it would be wise to look into a drainage system for the yard to drain away from the house. In some cases, it may be necessary to put in a sump pump so that your basement is protected from extra water. If you have a leaky basement in your Northern Virginia home, contact the professionals at Basement Masters Waterproofing. We will give you a no-cost evaluation and offer you the best waterproofing solution for your needs