Is there a leak in your basement? Seek professional help to address the damages. Basements are susceptible to floods. If water is allowed to stand for extended periods, it can soon turn into greywater or blackwater, both of which are extremely dangerous to human health. A flooded basement can lead to a number of problems, such as mold infestation, structural damage, furniture damage, etc. Water can enter your basement in many ways. To help you out, we’ll discuss some of the common causes of basement floods. Water Collection Around Your Home Foundation If your basement is not properly waterproofed, heavy rain can flood your basement. Without proper drainage that directs water away from your home structure, your basement will remain under constant threat of moisture invasion. If that holds true for your case, adjust the ground around your home so that it slopes outward to direct water away from the home foundation and thus the basement. Gutters and Downspouts Gutters and downspouts are meant to direct rainwater as far from your home as possible. If too many leaves or other debris occupies the gutters, they can easily cause it to clog. When that happens, water will overflow its banks and collect near your home foundation. The same problem occurs when the downspouts are not extended far enough from your home. They’ll discharge water close to the home foundations. To avoid this, keep clearing your gutters and add extensions on your downspouts at an appropriate distance from your home. Condensation Moving on to internal issues, water leakage may simply be a result of high humidity levels in the basement. Without sufficient ventilation, the walls, furniture, or pipes may seem to be ‘sweating’, a condition more appropriately referred to as condensation. Setting up a good ventilation system such as installing vents, exhaust fans, or using a dehumidifier will circulate and regulate the airflow, reducing the chances of water leaks from condensation. Floor Cracks Floor cracks are another common cause of water leaks. Water in the soil surrounding your home foundation can rise up through floor cracks. When water pools under the concrete flooring, hydrostatic pressure is formed. Since water has nowhere else to go, the hydrostatic pressure forces the water up through any floor cracks and into the basement. Sump pumps are the most effective solution for hydrostatic pressure. A sump pit (hole) is created in the concrete floor that collects water. When it fills up, the electric pump gets activated, which then pumps away from the home foundation. However, keep inspecting your sump pump from time to time. If it malfunctions, the accumulated water can flood your basement. Now that you’re familiar with the most common causes of water damage in basements, see what’s wrong in your situation. If you can’t resolve the problem yourself, call for professional help. For emergency water damage remediation, contact STOP today.