What causes water in basements?
Water in basements is usually caused by broken or cracked piping, which is most likely to happen in areas where the home’s foundation is weaker. There are also a few different ways water can get into your basement, even if it’s not leaking from the pipes.
1. Cracks in Windows
Broken or cracked windows can make your basement susceptible to flooding. Because they’re likely to get damaged by water, these windows can be easily broken or cracked. It’s especially bad if an excessive number of them are broken into small pieces. Water in your basement can get behind or through the window frames and then make its way throughout your home.
2. Water pressure creates cracks in walls
The area directly under your sump pump can become susceptible to water damage when the pump becomes clogged with debris that is left behind by winter storms or heavy rains. If the pump isn’t running smoothly, the water pressure builds up, creating cracks in the walls and other areas.
3. No sump pump or broken sump pump
If your basement has flooded and there’s no visible sump pump, probably it’s because it broke. Sump pumps are built to last a long time, but they’re not invincible; they can get clogged with debris or break down for many reasons. This damage can lead to water pressure problems, which cause cracks in the walls and windows.
Signs of a Basement Leak
There are a lot of clues that can tell you if your basement has flooded. If your basement has flooded, it’s going to be damp from water trying to seep out of the building.
1. Mold and Mildew
A musty smell in your basement could mean flooding in your home’s plumbing system. Although many types of mold and mildew can take up residence in basements, green mold is the most common fungi that cause problems for homeowners. Green mold, also called downy mildew, can grow and spread quickly in damp conditions.
2. Rust Stains
Rust stains and rusty water stains look a lot like seepage stains, but they’re slightly different. If there are rusty water stains floating on the surface of your basement, that indicates that there’s an issue with your sump pump. The water isn’t leaking from your basement pipes but coming from where the pump can’t keep up with it.
3. Wet or Rotting Wood
Very wet wood or rotting wood can indicate that your basement has flooded. If this is the case, it’s vital to seal off the area, or else you’re going to have a real problem on your hands. Ensure that you get rid of any wet wood as soon as possible to prevent mold from developing.
Conclusion
A flooded basement can be a huge and costly problem. Don’t hesitate to call a professional to help you with the repairs. They’ll be able to help you dry out your home, prevent mold from growing, and seal off problem areas so that water won’t leak into your home again in the future.
Toledo Basement Repair has certified technicians with years of experience to fix your leaking basement. We offer a free estimate on any waterproofing or basement needs and a low price guarantee. If you decide on our services, we will offer you 10% off your next service.
Call us today to get an estimate for your basement repair needs. You can also like on us Facebook!