Do you notice standing water or excess moisture in your crawl space? Is your crawl space smelling damp and musty? Learn everything you need to know about the X common causes of crawl space flooding.
The crawl space is a part of the house that homeowners probably don’t visit frequently. However, if water starts to accumulate there, it can become a serious health concern. This problem can lead to an even bigger problem such as a flooded crawl space. If not treated properly, it can eventually result in a flooded crawl space.
Lack of Proper Grading for Surface Water Drainage
While building a home, contractors need to properly grade the site in a way such that the slope of the ground moves water away from the home’s foundation. Even though this is an extremely important job, it is often not done properly.
If the slope of the landscaping doesn’t channel water away from the house, water can start to pool around the foundation. This results in oversaturation of soil which leads to significant amounts of pressure against the foundation walls. Eventually, this pressure allows water to seep through the tiniest cracks in the foundation and into the crawl space.
Inadequate Gutter and Drainage Systems
Like grading, gutter and drainage systems are also designed to channel water away from the home’s foundation. Gutters contain the rainwater and prevent it from oversaturating the soil surrounding the foundation. Downspout extensions then move all the water away from the foundation to a place where the ground slope automatically channels it away from the house.
If there are inadequate gutter and drainage mechanisms, the oversaturated soil surrounding the foundation can result in crawl space leaks and structural damage.
Broken Water Lines and Ruptured Plumbing
Damaged or old plumbing, frozen pipes, sewer backups can cause water lines to break. Once the water starts to leak or pour from the line, it can possibly accumulate in the crawl space and result in flooding.
If this happens, homeowners might start receiving increased utility bills. If this issue is not addressed timely, it can not only shoot up water bills but also present some daunting health hazards and sanitary concerns.
Flower Bed
Flower beds magnify the beauty of the landscaping. However, watering these flowers and shrubs can result in a flooded crawl space. For instance, running hoses and sprinkler systems or simply overwatering can cause an accumulation of water that ultimately ends up inside the crawl space.
Leaking Windows or Vent Wells
Several basements and crawl spaces have vents and windows built into them. This area is referred to as the window well. If there is any space or gap in it, water can start to seep in and eventually lead to flooding in the crawl space.
Last Few Words
If you notice water in your crawl space, then the best thing to do is to call a professional plumber. They will be able to pinpoint the exact spot of the leak and repair it.
S.T.O.P can help you prevent your crawl space from getting flooded. It serves in Whitney Ranch, Sky Canyon, North Las Vegas, Centennial Hills, and several other areas.
For professional plumbing services, dial 702-803-3094 now or visit our website today!
