9 Tips to Stop Basement Water Leaks After Heavy Rain
There’s nothing quite as calming as the sound of rain pattering against your windows—until you realize that water is seeping into your basement. Unfortunately, it’s all too common for water to leak into your basement after heavy rain.
Left unchecked, a leaking basement can cause significant damage, from mold growth and health concerns to ruined belongings and foundation deterioration. But don’t panic; with effective basement waterproofing solutions, you can ensure your basement stays dry even in the face of Mother Nature’s fury. Learn what works and what doesn’t and how local Groundworks professionals can help.
Avoid Water in Your Basement: Follow These 9 Tips
We’ve compiled a list of practical tips to help you effectively prevent water from making an unwanted entrance into your basement after a rainstorm:
1. Grade Your Landscaping Properly
The landscape design around your property should promote rainwater flow away from your home. Proper soil grading, where the ground slopes away from the structure, is crucial. Incorrect grading can cause water to pool next to your basement walls, causing leaks. We recommend hiring a professional landscaper to regrade your yard for optimal drainage.
2. Maintain Gutters and Downspouts
Exterior drainage systems like gutters and downspouts are essential for channeling rainwater away from your home. Regular cleaning and maintenance are necessary to prevent water from leaking into your basement. If you’re uncomfortable with this task, consider hiring a professional for cleaning, repairs, and replacements.
3. Add or Replace Exterior Drainage and Damp Proofing
During construction, builders usually install drainage pipes next to your foundation’s footing to intercept water and apply a tar coating or damp proofing to prevent moisture intrusion. However, these pipes can clog or get crushed, and the wall coating can deteriorate over time. While digging down to replace these elements is an option, it can be costly and damage your landscaping without guaranteeing permanent solutions.
4. Clean Basement Window Wells
If your basement has windows and window wells, ensure they’re well-maintained to prevent water seepage. Regular cleaning, sealing, and repair can help. Consider installing covers on your window wells for extra protection.
5. Avoid Applying Waterproof Paints or Sealants
While applying “waterproof” paint or sealant to basement walls may seem like an easy fix, it’s often temporary. These coatings can flake and bubble, allowing moisture to seep through, and may lead to efflorescence (chalky white deposits) on concrete walls, indicating water presence. These measures should not be your primary defense against moisture.
6. Install a Sump Pump
Installing a sump pump is an effective way to protect your home’s foundation from excess water. Placed at the lowest part of your basement, a sump pump collects and channels surplus water away from your home. It works best when paired with an interior drainage system that collects water leaking through walls, floors, and cove joints (where the walls and floor meet).
7. Check on Moisture Levels After Heavy Rain
Regularly inspect your basement after heavy rain to spot any signs of water leakage. If you find any moisture, it’s essential to address the issue promptly. Even a small amount of water can lead to problems like mold growth, health issues, damaged belongings, and foundation deterioration. Don’t regard this as a “normal” occurrence but as a serious issue that needs immediate attention.
8. Install a Dehumidifier
High humidity levels in your basement can lead to condensation, causing dampness even without visible leaks. A basement dehumidifier effectively reduces humidity levels, making your basement less prone to dampness and mold. When choosing a dehumidifier, consider the size of your basement and its current humidity level. Advanced models can be integrated into your home’s HVAC system for seamless humidity control.
9. Call the Pros
Dealing with a leaky basement after heavy rain can be a daunting task, but taking preventative measures can save you from stress and potential damage. Remember, every house and situation is unique, so it’s crucial to identify what works best for your specific scenario. Don’t hesitate to contact local Groundworks professionals for inspection and waterproofing solutions. With the right approach, you can enjoy the soothing sounds of rain without having to worry about the repercussions in your basement.
Get Lasting Waterproofing Solutions Near You!
If you want to permanently waterproof your basement and eliminate storm flood worries, choose a professional basement waterproofing company. When you partner with Groundworks experts, you benefit from years of experience and a commitment to:
- Honest business practices
- Efficient, high-quality installation
- Industry-leading solutions
- Customized repairs
- Extensive warranties
- Service and maintenance programs
We understand the challenges posed by wet weather and have over many years of experience keeping water out of basements across the country. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and discover how we can protect your home.
FAQs
Any amount of water in your basement, whether it’s a few inches, a puddle, or a damp wall, is a warning sign. Water intrusion can lead to mold growth, health issues, damaged belongings, and even foundation deterioration.
Basements commonly experience water intrusion after heavy rain, but it shouldn’t be accepted as normal. Persistent water issues are best addressed with professional water management solutions to keep your basement dry and your home safe.
Investing in professional repairs is the best approach to fixing a leaking basement. Depending on the source and extent of the leaks, solutions may include interior drainage systems, sump pumps, dehumidifiers, and wall vapor barriers. Groundworks provides tailored solutions to effectively manage and prevent water intrusion in your basement.
