Have you noticed recent wet spots on your basement wall or floor? Wondering what could be the cause? The basement is a vulnerable area of the house that’s very susceptible to moisture damage, for a number of reasons. Whether there’s some pooling water on the floor, or a musty smell, or watermarks along the walls, here are a few of the most common reasons why basements become wet in the first place.
If you’ve been noticing water along the wall of your basement, this could pinpoint a problem with your drainage. If the ground is sloping inwards, or even if it’s level, this could be directing rainwater back towards the home, allowing it to seep into your foundation and basement walls. This is usually more common among older homes as the soil can shift and resettle over time, eventually creating some low-lying areas. This type of problem can be serious and should be inspected by a professional as soon as possible.
Sometimes, a wet basement can also be caused by your gutter system. Take a look outside to see if your gutters and downspouts are functioning adequately. Any cracks or broken areas can allow water to pool around the foundation of your home. And, as water percolates into the ground, it can cause moisture damage and a damp, musty smell in your basement. Always have your gutter system cleaned out after each season and repaired when necessary to allow water to drain away from your home, not into it.
Air pockets (also known as ‘honeycombs’) can form throughout your walls over time, usually as a result of poorly mixed concrete. As the air pockets develop into cavities, they can allow water to easily enter and cause water damage in the basement. This isn’t usually a serious problem, but it’s still wise to have it fixed by a professional Ottawa foundation repair company to avoid any considerable damage down the road.
Sump pumps are used to collect water and transport it away from the home. But they can sometimes fail due to a number of reasons, such as improper installation, power failure, clogged lines, and poor maintenance. In this case, a large influx of water can overburden the system and cause it to leak around the foundation of your home, and eventually seep into the walls of the basement. We recommend calling for immediate assistance if you notice any problems with your sump pump.
If you’re experiencing a problem with moisture damage in your basement, it could likely be any one of these common culprits. That’s why you need a foundation repair expert to pinpoint the source accurately. Your wet basement may feel damp and uncomfortable, but it’s important to remember how damaging this can be to the foundation of your home, especially if it’s left ignored. To protect the safety and structural integrity of your home, give us a call at City Residential Foundation Repair. We provide upfront estimates, professional and reliable service, and affordable rates. Contact us today!
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