Types of Basement Leaks
The underground location of basements makes them prone to water leaks, particularly after a hard rain outside. Water can leak into the basement and form puddles. Damp, wet basements provide the ideal growing conditions for mildew and mold, which can cause health problems or children and adults who suffer from respiratory conditions. Water and moisture can leak into basements in many ways. Does this Spark an idea?
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Gutters
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A missing, blocked or broken gutter or downspout can lead to water streaming down the side of the house and pooling on the ground near the basement. The water will then find its way into the basement through porous earth and rock and small cracks in the basement walls. Repair all broken or blocked gutters promptly to avoid basement leaks.
Pipes and Faucets
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Many basements house water pipes and faucets for plumbing or heating systems. Occasionally pipes and faucets can spring leaks, leading to wet basement floors and walls. Regularly inspect all basement pipes and faucets for leaks, and repair them as soon as possible.
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Windows
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The design of exterior dugout windows can funnel water against your property's foundations and into the basement through tiny cracks in the walls. Install a clear plastic well cover over the dugout windows. These allow light to enter the basement but keep water out.
Walls
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Whether made from solid masonry or concrete blocks, all building materials are porous, and sometimes moisture and water can leak into basements through porous walls. An effective way to prevent this seepage is to treat the interior basement wall surface with a high-grade, waterproof sealant that can be painted directly onto the basement walls.
Cracks
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Holes and cracks in basement walls provide easy access for water from outside. The seams between cinder and concrete blocks can also let in water and moisture. Examine basement walls for damage, and fill any cracks with hydraulic cement, which is easy to apply and hardens into a watertight filler that will keep moisture out of the basement.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit brick wall image by charles taylor from Fotolia.com
