by Jim Zdrazil
A basement water leak is not uncommon. In fact, at some point and time, most homeowners are faced with the problem. A basement water leak could be a result of a minor problem, like heavy rain during a storm. But it could also be the result of something major, like structural problems. Despite the inconvenience, a basement water leak can be solved either by a professional or with do-it-yourself industrial cleaning solutions.
Some things to look at when faced with a basement water leak are cracks or holes in the cement foundation, high underground water levels, or drainage problems. Depending on the cause, waterproof sealers, such as a sealing masonry, could be used to repair cracks and prevent a basement water leak. If the basement water leak cause stems from high water levels or drainage issues, installing a sump pump and drains should be considered.
Often times, a basement water leak is a result of cracks in the foundation, basement wall or basement floor. These problems stem from the home building process. Sometimes basement foundation walls are built using the minimum amount of structural steel. Or exterior walls might not be properly waterproofed. A basement water leak could also be a result of improper drainage, especially if your home is built in a hilly area. Whatever the cause, a professional can help you identify and solve major basement water leak problems.
With a minor basement water leak, it’s important to act quickly. If left unresolved, a simple basement water leak could turn more costly. If the water problem persists, mold and mildew will begin forming in your basement. Then, you’ll be faced with the additional problems of addressing these issues. So a basement water leak, when fixed early, can prevent other problem from occurring.
Your home’s foundation or ground area are the likely causes of a basement water leak. But gutters could also be the driving force for a basement water leak. If gutters are not properly angled to flow water away from the house, water gathers on the ground near basement walls. Gutters clogged with leaves or debris could lead to a basement water leak because standing water can start to erode the foundation.
Taking preventive measures are important steps to avoiding a basement water leak. When a severe rain storm or hurricane is on the horizon, consider purchasing products that can keep water at bay. A water absorbent sock, for example, can stop water from leaking through basement windows and doors. The Hurricane Sock, sold at the Cleanup Stuff website at www.cleanupstuff.com, has actually helped Florida homeowners prevent a basement water leak during a hurricane. The Hurricane Sock absorbs a gallon of water. Plus it can be air dried and reused over and over again.
Once a basement water leak has been fixed, your basement could still smell musty or feel damp. What to do? Keep the dampness out by placing water absorbent materials around the basement walls, windows and doors. Don’t forget to put absorbent protection around water heaters, washing machines and other items in your basement that can leak. You might also want to consider applying a sealant to basement walls and floors to prevent moisture for building up again.
Taking preventive measures to avoid a basement water leak are worth the time and effort. It’s likely that your home is the biggest investment you’ll make, so you’ll want to protect it as best you can. By fixing cracks as soon as they occur and using absorbent materials near windows and doors are good measures to take to prevent a basement water leak from occurring.
About the Author:
Expert author Jim Zdrazil has much more information about repairing a
basement water leak here. Industrial cleaning solutions for the home can be sourced at
cleanupstuff