If you’re a homeowner facing the issue of standing water in basement, you know just how frustrating and expensive it can be. While there are many possible causes of standing water, there are solutions to each of them. Read on to learn more and learn how moisture loc can help.

Causes of Standing Water in Basement

There are a few different culprits to standing water. They are:

Poor Drainage

If your home’s drainage system isn’t functioning properly, water can accumulate around your foundation and seep into your basement. This could be due to clogged gutters, downspouts that are too short, or a slope that directs water toward your foundation.

Hydrostatic Pressure

Hydrostatic pressure happens when the water table in the soil surrounding your home rises, creating pressure that can cause cracks in your foundation walls. Over time, these cracks can let water seep in and accumulate within your basement.

Damaged Foundation Walls

Another cause of standing water in basements is poorly installed or damaged foundation walls. Cracks and gaps can allow water to seep in and accumulate in your basement, so it’s important to have your foundation walls inspected regularly.

Improper Grading

If the ground around your home slopes towards your foundation, water can accumulate and cause issues. Check to ensure the ground around your home slopes away from your foundation.

Plumbing Leaks

Leaky pipes can cause water to accumulate in your basement. This can be a tricky issue to identify, but an increase in your water bill or the sound of running water when no faucets are turned on can be a sign of a plumbing leak.

Malfunctions with the Sump Pump

A sump pump is an important part of your home’s waterproofing system, but if it’s not installed correctly or becomes clogged, it may not function properly. This can cause water to accumulate in your basement.

Heavy Rain or Flooding

If you live in an area prone to flooding, it’s important to take preventative measures such as installing a sump pump, sealing your foundation walls, and elevating any electrical components in your basement.

By identifying the cause of the issue of standing water, you can prevent it from happening again in the future. So, if you’re experiencing standing water in your basement, make sure to have a professional, like Moisture Loc, inspect your home and recommend the appropriate solution.

How to Prevent Standing Water in Basement

With the many different causes of standing water, there are a few different ways to prevent standing water from occurring in your home. They are the following:”

Waterproofing

Add Waterproofing materials to the exterior of your basement and apply a waterproofing membrane or coating to the foundation walls. This can block the water from seeping in. You could also add a drainage system around the basement that redirects water from the foundation.

Grading and Drainage Improvements

You can ensure water does not enter your basement by making the ground around your home slope away from the foundation. Also, ensure that gutters and downspouts are cleaned and maintained properly to drain and keep your home dry continuously.

Crack and Leak Repairs

racks and leaks in basement walls or floors can be a significant source of water intrusion. Repairing these cracks and leaks with appropriate sealants or patching materials can help to prevent water from seeping through and causing standing water in the basement.

Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers help ensure there is no excess moisture that may contribute to the occurrence of standing water. Humidity can also cause mold to form. A dehumidifier makes sure there is no extra moisture in the air, keeping the interior dry and safe from mold and mildew.

Professional Consultation:

Getting guidance and skills from professionals can give you peace of mind that your basement is safely waterproofed. Professionals like Moisture Loc have been waterproofing homes since 1988 and will know what course of action will most effectively keep your basement dry.

Risks of Standing Water in the Basement

It is important that standing water is addressed right away, preferably as soon as you discover it accumulating. If you have belongings in your basement, standing water is more likely to damage them.

Water can conduct electricity, making standing water increase the risk of electrical shock or short-circuiting, which can result in fires, damage to electrical systems, and even electrocution. Standing water can also attract pests, such as mosquitoes, flies, and rodents.

If standing water is not addressed, the water can seep into the foundation and the walls of your home and damage the structural integrity. Mold and mildew are also formed in environments with a lot of moisture, making them more likely to form around standing water.

Last but not least, A basement with a history of standing water can negatively impact the value of your property. It can be a red flag to potential homebuyers and may affect your ability to sell your home or obtain favorable insurance rates.

Solutions to Standing Water

Sump Pump

As soon as you spot standing water, it is important to act fast, luckily, a sump pump can help you address the issue quickly. A sump pump is a common and effective solution for removing standing water in basements. A sump pump has a pit or basin that collects water and a pump that automatically activates when the water reaches a certain level, pumping the water out and away from the basement.

If you find only a small amount of standing water, use a wet-dry vacuum to help remove the area. You can also use fans and humidifiers to dry the area. Then, call professionals to assess the source of the standing water to prevent it from happening again.

However, if your basement has a large amount of standing water, it is best to get the help of basement waterproofing professionals. Professionals will have the tools available to safely and effectively remove the standing water while making sure that it does not happen again.

Basement Drainage Systems

In order to effectively gather and divert water within the basement, we position a drainage system encircling the basement’s edges to guide the water away from the residence. This process entails excavating a trench and removing the surrounding concrete. Subsequently, a drain pipe is carefully positioned within the trench and concealed with a layer of stone.

Basement Panel System

An antimicrobial panel or board is subsequently affixed to the surface. This board gathers moisture as it permeates the structure, then channels the accumulated liquid into the lower drain. Constructed from a non-organic substance, this board prevents the growth of fungi or damp-related issues.

Wrapping Up

Moisture Loc has been serving residents and businesses of Charlotte, North Carolina, and surrounding areas for over three decades. We are a family-owned and operated business that provides foundation repair, basement & crawl space waterproofing, sealed crawl space encapsulation, and outdoor yard drains. We can help you have confidence in your basement’s structural integrity. Contact us today for a free consultation

Water in the basement can be a real pain, but with a little prevention and quick action, you can avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with standing water. When you take care of your basement, your basement will take care of you.