You don’t have to live in a flood zone to get water damage in your basement. Often, the basement is below the water grade and easily take on water. In times of heavy rains, you can end up with quite a bit of damage.
Even if you don’t have water collecting in your basement, if it isn’t sealed you can still have damage from mold, mildew and fungus. Thinking of making your basement into an extra room? Then you need to make sure it doesn’t get ruined.
If you already have damage, then make sure you call https://www.unitedrestorationfl.com/locations/fort-lauderdale/ and then take the following steps to make sure you never have to call them again.
Find the water source
You should be able to find the area where the water is coming in by looking at any seams in the concrete. There should be some water streaks when it is leaking and when it isn’t those areas will look darker.
Typical areas that leak are around windows, between mortar joints and around sewer pipes.
If the entire wall is wet or damp then it will definitely mean more detective work.
Fill the cracks
This is something you should do when you are moving into a new home no matter what. Fill in the cracks where water could come in even if you don’t see any signs of it. You’ll be killing two birds with one stone since you will also keep pests like mice out by sealing the cracks.
Use a foam that expands in the holes and completely fills the crack making it waterproof. Hydraulic cement is also an option.
Seal the walls themselves
If your walls are concrete, then they may allow moisture to seep through even if they don’t allow enough to flood the basement. Concrete is porous and if your basement is under the water table, then it is likely you will see some water seeping through.
Use a masonry sealant to paint your walls which will create an impermeable barrier. It works just like pain so applying it yourself is very easy. Once it dries it becomes watertight.
Check gutters and landscaping
Your gutters may be a problem with your leaky basement. If they are not draining properly, the water goes down through the walls and enters into the basement through the foundation. The same holds true for any bushes or trees that may be right up against your house.
The first step is to clean your gutters completely. You can do this yourself with a pressure washer. If the problem persists, then see if the water is draining too close to the house from the spout. You may need to direct the water further away.
Then see if there are any roots from your shrubs and trees around the house that may be cracking the foundation. If so, then remove them and seal the walls. Using permaculture techniques may help direct water away from your house and look good while doing it.
