Basement Cracks & Leaks

The owner of a wet, moldy basement may trace the problem to cracks in the structure's foundation or walls. These leaks can cause severe water damage if left unchecked.

Causes

Cracks form in a basement when the concrete walls and foundation shift over time. Builders do not always include enough structural steel to properly brace the foundation against movement, the Ask the Builder website states. Builders may also neglect to waterproof the walls, allowing water to leak through the cracks.

Consequences

Water damage from leaks in cracked basement walls can damage not only the basement itself but the rest of the home, according to Inspectapedia. As the moisture collects, it migrates up through the house toward the attic, causing mold damage and rotting parts of the structure.

Repairs

Many compounds can repair cracks in basement walls to resolve leakage, according to Ask the Builder. Special patching cements applied over cracks expand and keep water out, while grouts and polyurethane-based epoxies can fill cracks around the foundation. Homeowners can also brush waterproofing compounds onto the inside walls for added protection against future leaks.

References

• Ask the Builder: Basement Water Leaks
• Inspectapedia: How to Inspect for Basement Leaks or Moisture