Jumping into a puddle of water when you’re a toddler? Fun! Stepping into a puddle of water in your basement? Cause for concern. There are a number of reasons you may see water in your basement, but no matter the cause, this is not a problem you should ignore.
If you notice water seeping into your basement, you’ll want to act swiftly to prevent mold and water damage from taking hold. Read on as we go over some common reasons for water seeping through a basement floor or foundation and what to do about them.
Blocked or Damaged Drain Lines
When floor or perimeter drains become clogged with sediment, debris, or tree roots, they’re no longer able to move water away from the basement. You may notice water coming up from basement floor drains and pooling on the floor. It is recommended that the problem be addressed quickly. Depending on the severity of the issue, the drain line may need to be cleared or, in the case of a collapsed line, replaced. Regular inspections of the drainage system can help prevent these problems from happening again and causing more damage.
Leaky Water Supply Pipes
Over time, water supply pipes can develop pinhole openings due to wear, corrosion, or damage. If these pipes run underneath the basement, it can lead to water leaks in the basement floor. Contact a licensed plumber to fix the leak and consider sealing the foundation and waterproofing basement walls and floors.
Foundation Cracks
Rainwater can accumulate in the soil around the foundation of a home and eventually find its way into the basement. Check the exterior of your foundation and interior basement walls for cracks and gaps. While small hairline fissures are common and typically not a cause for concern, larger cracks may need attention to prevent further water intrusion.
Improper Grading
Proper grading is essential for ensuring that rainwater and groundwater flows away from the foundation. When landscape grading is inadequate or poorly done, it can cause excess groundwater to flow toward the exterior of the home and lead to water coming up from the floor. Make sure the lawn slopes away from your home’s foundation or contact an experienced landscaping company for an evaluation.
Clogged Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters and downspouts are an essential part of your home’s drainage system. Their sole function is to collect rainwater and direct it away from your home and foundation. When gutters and downspouts are clogged, damaged, or non-existent, rainwater can enter the home, foundation, and erode landscaping. Have your gutters cleaned in the spring and fall and make sure downspouts extend at least three feet from your home to properly channel water away.
Anthony’s to The Rescue
If you’re currently faced with a clogged sewer or drain problem, contact Anthony’s Plumbing today. Our expert plumbers are ready for any sewer or drain issue you may have, big or small. And if you’re in need of sump pump repair or installation, we can help with that, too. Contact us today for more information or to schedule an appointment.
