Homeowners, at one time or another, have faced a frustrating and complex problem: finding leaks in the basement. Although this usually comes as a surprise to homeowners, there are not only ways to detect such issues but, once detected, simple solutions that can be employed to remedy this unfortunate situation.

Detecting A Leak

So, how can you tell if you have a leaky basement? If you detect dampness, mustiness, see white powder, or find wet areas it probably means that you have a leak somewhere in the basement. Once detected, it is imperative that the leak is stopped before the problem escalates and becomes more serious, possibly leading to the growth of mold and mildew in your home - something which, if left unchecked, can pose serious health risks to you and your family.

Common Causes and How to Fix A Leak Once It is Detected

Although there are a number of factors that may contribute to basement leaks, there are some common causes and some simple solutions that can be implemented. For instance, if you find any of the previously mentioned situations in your home, it may mean that you have:

• Cracks in poured concrete or block walls. If this is the case, the cracks must first be repaired permanently and the repaired joints sealed with concrete sealer.

• Leaking or wide joint between the floor and the walls. For this situation, the following solution should be sought:

1. For a leaking joint, the affected area should be routed out, filled, and sealed. Conversely, you may also acquire a foundation crack repair kit, which should be injected into the affected area.

2. If you find that the joint between the wall and the floor is too wide, the joint should be filled with foam backer rod, and filled with epoxy crack filler.

• Leaking cracks in concrete floor or faulty expansion control joints. If find that you have:

1. Cracks in a concrete floor, a floor repair kit should be used, and the repaired areas sealed with a concrete sealer.

2. Leaking expansion control joints should be filled with an epoxy crack filler.

• Water seeping in concrete walls, block walls, clay brick walls, or through basement floor. If water is seeping in anywhere in the basement, you should waterproof with the appropriate sealing product – either a dedicated concrete sealer, concrete and brick sealer, or concrete and masonry colour sealer.

• Leaks around pipes or seeping wire ties in concrete walls. If any of these issues are affecting your home, the affected area should be filled with a gap filler kit.

• Power or sump pump failure. Battery or sump pump back-ups should be installed.

If you have a leaky basement or require any other plumbing repairs, DrainCom.com would be happy to help you.