Many people deal with leaky and damp basements. Water leaks and seepage in the basement can be caused by rain or plumbing leaks. They can enter the basement through floor cracks, wall cracks, over or under the footer, or by sweating of the walls. Water in the basement can cause cracks and structural damage to the home. It can also cause damage to drywall, wood paneling, and carpet. Another major concern of having water in the basement is that it can produce mold and mildew.
If your home has water problems in the basement, it’s a good idea to call a professional to inspect your home. He can tell you where the water is entering and what needs to be done to fix the problem. Some homes may only have some condensation which can be mistaken for water leaks. To get rid of condensation, all that needs to be done is to improve ventilation or use a dehumidifier. Water from the ground that seeps into the basement can be repaired by adding a draining system and sump pump. A sump pump mechanically removes water from the basement and transfers it to a different area where it can’t be a problem. If water is coming in through cracks in the walls, the most common way to deal with that is to excavate the foundation and seal the cracks. It’s also best to install a French drain or footer drain which can redirect water away from the home.
