Learn how to handle water in your basement and how to prevent moisture and water damage in the future with this complete guide to water control in basements.
Water in your basement is never a good sign. Whether it’s a result of heavy rains or a pipe leak in your home, water can lead to some pretty serious problems down the road.
This complete guide to water in your basement will equip you with the tools you need to assess how the water got there, what to do with it now that it is there, and how to prevent water in the future.
So grab your buckets and your sump pumps and let’s get into it.
If you notice water in your basement, it’s time to take action—but don’t panic. There are some factors that you need to consider in order to decide on the best course of action.
If water is regularly sneaking into your basement—especially due to storms or snow melting—then Houston, we have a problem. If the water results in standing water or dampness, it needs immediate attention.
Water does more than just damage your items. It can lead to mold growth, deterioration of structural integrity, and other health concerns.
Mold and mildew caused by excess moisture in your basement can cause respiratory problems and other health problems like allergies and asthma.
Cracks in your basement (on the walls and floors) indicate foundational issues. These are often caused by improper drainage around the outside of your home.
If your home experiences frequent water issues, the value of your home decreases to potential buyers.
Okay, so now you’re thinking it’s time to do something about the water in your basement. Step 1 is to figure out the source of the water. Here are a few common causes of water accumulation.
Plumbing problems | Leaky pipes or faulty plumbing fixtures can cause water to pool in your basement, especially if there are hidden leaks or breaks in underground pipes. |
Poor drainage | Surface water can accumulate around your home if the landscape slopes toward the foundation, gutters overflow, or downspouts are too short, leading to water entry near exterior walls. |
Small roof leaks | Even minor roof leaks can lead to basement water issues, as water travels down through walls and ceilings, eventually pooling in your basement. |
Cracks in the walls or foundations | Cracks in your foundation or basement walls provide entry points for water, especially during periods of heavy rain or when groundwater levels rise. |
Water table fluctuations | Changes in the water table can increase the risk of basement flooding, particularly if your home is built in an area with high groundwater levels. |
Hydrostatic pressure | Rising groundwater and saturation during wet weather can create pressure beneath your home, pushing water through cracks in the foundation or concrete floor. |
Slow draining mains | A clogged or slow-draining main sewer line can cause water to back up into your basement, especially during heavy rainstorms. |
Condensation | Moist air in the basement can condense on cool surfaces like pipes or walls, causing moisture buildup that mimics water leaks. |
Once you’ve identified the source of the water in your basement, it’s time to take action. First and foremost, stay safe—standing water and electrical wires do not mix. Be mindful when dealing with a flood situation!
Here are a few ways to get rid of the water gathering in your basement:
Get the majority of standing water out by using a Shop-Vac to suck up puddles of water. This works well when there are small amounts of water, but it will require multiple passes for larger puddles.
After removing the water, run a dehumidifier to remove any excess moisture from the air to reduce the humidity levels of your basement.
Professionals will be able to help you with the above steps, as well as provide an important final step—a vapor barrier. Vapor barriers prevent moisture from seeping into the basement in the future. They can also treat any mold you find.
Once you’ve identified the source of the water in your basement, it’s time to take action. First and foremost, stay safe—standing water and electrical wires do not mix. Be mindful when dealing with a flood situation!
Here are a few ways to get rid of the water gathering in your basement:
Clogged gutters lead to water pooling around your foundation, which increases the chance your basement will have a leak. Regularly clean your gutters and make sure downspouts extend at least 5 to 10 feet away from your house to direct water away from the foundation.
If the ground around your home slopes toward the foundation, water will naturally collect there. Regrading the soil helps water flow away from your foundation. Also, seal any visible cracks or gaps in the foundation to prevent water from seeping in.
If your basement is prone to flooding, a sump pump is an effective solution. It automatically pumps water out of your basement and away from your home, protecting your space from standing water and potential damage.
Even small plumbing leaks can lead to significant water issues over time. Address any plumbing problems promptly to prevent moisture buildup or basement flooding.
When it comes to protecting your home from water damage, hiring a basement waterproofing expert is a must. DIY fixes may offer temporary relief, but the root causes—like hydrostatic pressure, poor drainage, or foundation cracks—often require professional evaluation.
A skilled expert can identify these problems, customize a solution, and ensure your basement stays dry long-term.
But how do you know you’re hiring the right professional? Look for a company that offers comprehensive services like drainage systems, sump pumps, and vapor barriers.
A good waterproofing expert should back their work with warranties, have a solid reputation, and provide detailed inspections before offering a solution. They should also be transparent about their methods and pricing.
Not always. While water can seep through foundation cracks, other causes include poor drainage, clogged gutters, or improper grading around your home. However, foundation issues should be ruled out by a professional.
Water can start damaging a foundation within 24-48 hours if it’s continuously pooling or seeping into cracks. Over time, this can lead to serious structural issues, including cracks, shifts, and weakened stability.
Water rising through the basement floor typically indicates hydrostatic pressure from groundwater. This can lead to cracks, mold growth, and potential structural damage if not addressed with proper drainage or waterproofing solutions.
Let the experts worry about the water in your basement so you don’t have to. Finished Basements Plus is the go-to basement waterproofing company in Michigan. Book a consultation today.
