20 Mar Why is There Water in my Basement?

Discovering water in your basement can be very frustrating and concerning. At that moment, you’ll most likely ask yourself, ‘Why is there water in my basement?’ The answer to that question may vary, from cracks in the foundation, walls, or floors to poor exterior drainage. The key to solving your problem is understanding and tackling those causes immediately. 

Here, we’ll explain the most common causes of why water seeps into your basement and what you can do about it. 

 

Common Causes of Water in Your Basement

1. Poor Exterior Drainage

When you wonder, ‘Why is there water in my basement?’ First, consider whether you have poor exterior drainage. Poor exterior drainage can result from clogged gutters, short downspouts, or improper yard grading. These issues generally cause water to pool around your home instead of being diverted. In the long run, this constant pooling will weaken your foundation and eventually leak inside.

Invest in proper drainage solutions to ensure your gutters are always clean and unclogged. Downspouts extend several feet from the house, and the ground slopes away from the foundation. 

 

2. Cracks in the Foundation or Basement Walls

The next common issue is finding cracks in the foundation or basement walls and water in your basement. That seemingly minor crack causes significant water through seepage, leading to dampness and mold growth that eventually leads to structural damage. Over time, other factors like natural settling, temperature fluctuations, and soil pressure will worsen the matter by causing fractures in your foundation and walls. 

So, when you see water leaking into your basement and wall or foundation cracks, sealing them can help prevent further leaks, regardless of how minor they look. However, if the cracks look more prominent or wider, professional repair is needed to address the issue and keep your basement dry. 

 

 

3. High Water Table & Hydrostatic Pressure

When there are no visible cracks or known drainage issues, the answer to ‘Why is there water in my basement?’ may stem from a high water table and hydrostatic pressure that causes water to seep into your basement. If you’re unfamiliar with the term, it describes a condition where the soil becomes completely saturated with water due to heavy rainfall or snowmelt. This saturation creates intense pressure against walls and floors, forcing moisture inside. 

Combating this issue may require a sump pump, improving exterior drainage, or considering other interior waterproofing systems to relieve those pressures. That said, we recommend seeking help from a professional waterproofing company like AquaGuard. 

 

4. Basement Floor Cracks

Floor cracks serve as entry points for groundwater. However, cracks on the floor alone usually don’t cause water issues unless there are other factors, such as a high water table, poor drainage, or hydrostatic pressure. When excess water is present beneath your basement, it will seep through these cracks and cause moisture buildup.

The solution to this problem is similar to cracks in walls or foundations. However, a more comprehensive approach tackles other underlying issues by improving drainage, installing a sump pump, or implementing interior waterproofing to prevent excessive groundwater or moisture from accumulating. 

 

5. Egress Window Leaks

Initially, egress windows or window wells were designed to keep the soil away, hence, water from basement windows. However, once they fail, they become a significant source of water intrusion. Failure can be caused by improper installation, a lack of a functioning drain, or a filling with debris or rainwater. Once a pool of water is created in the excavated space, it’ll easily access your basement through frames or cracks. 

 

The Risks of Ignoring Basement Water Issues

Failing to do something even after learning the answer to “Why is there water in my basement?” may worsen the once minor leak or occasional dampness into costly damage. Here are some risks of ignoring water in your basement issues: 

 

• Mold & Mildew Growth: Persistent moisture created by the presence of water, even in the smallest amount, makes the perfect environment for the growth of mold and mildew. Once they spread, you’ll soon notice musty odors, unsightly stains, and, worse, bad air quality that exacerbates any allergies and respiratory conditions one of your family members has. 

 

• Structural Damage: Left unchecked, constant exposure to moisture will widen small cracks, rot wooden supports, and bow basement walls due to pressure. Eventually, these things will compromise the structural integrity, become very dangerous for your family, and lead to costly repairs. 

 

• Lower Property Value: No one wants to invest in a house with unresolved water issues, foundation concerns, mold problems, or a history of flooding. Those major red flags will lower the value of your home to potential buyers.

 

• Damage to Belongings: Even small amounts of moisture will ruin your electronic appliances, furniture, clothing, and other sentimental items you may keep in the basement in the long run. If the leaks are severe, they may even cause damage beyond repair that will cost you things you most cherished. 

 

 

How AquaGuard Can Help: Basement Waterproofing Solutions

Now that you know the answer to “Why is there water in my basement?” The next step is to take action before the problem worsens. Ignoring it will cause structural damage and, worse, health problems. Whatever the cause, addressing it with AquaGuard’s help is essential to keeping your basement dry and your home safe. 

At AquaGuard Pittsburgh, we specialize in basement waterproofing solutions tailored to your specific needs. Our team of experts will assess the situation, identify the cause of water intrusion, and implement effective solutions such as sump pump installation, foundation repair, and drainage improvements.

Contact our team today for a free consultation.