causes of water leaks in basement
June 8, 2021

#1: Under the Footer

It’s common in the construction industry to leave a small space between the footer and the poured foundation floor. But excess water can build up and create pressure, causing water to seep in through this crack. This can cause damage to the inside of your home and make the basement space unusable for living space or storage.

#2: Cracks In Foundation Wall or Mortar Joints

Excess moisture in the soil around your basement walls can build up and create pressure, which can cause cracks in the foundation and allow water to seep in. If you have concrete block walls, this seeping water may not be visible until it builds up inside the blocks. This can cause mildew and other problems from excess moisture. You might also see water seeping out of the bottom of the wall.

#3: Cracks In Basement Floor

Water can build up in the soil below your basement floor and create pressure, which can then cause water to press through cracks into your basement floor. The easiest way to tell if this is happening is if you see any visible water pooling on your floor, particularly in any low spots. If you don’t see pools of water directly, there are some signs to look for that might indicate that water has previously pooled there. Pay attention to water stains or other discoloration on the floor. Also, look for efflorescence, a white or gray powdery residue of salt deposits that water leaves behind.

#4: Windows and Window Wells

Because basement windows and window wells are located below ground level in a recessed area, they can accumulate dirt, debris, water, pests, and growing plants. Window wells can fill with water during wet weather, seep out through leaks around the window opening, and flood your basement. If older basement windows and window wells have not been properly maintained, they can rust, rot, or corrode, which can create leaks into your home and cause mold or mildew problems.

You need to keep your basement windows and window wells in good shape, to help keep moisture and water out of your basement. Make sure your windows completely seal without any holes, gaps, or cracks around them.

#5: Over the Top of Your Foundation

A heavy influx of water and improper foundation grading next to your home can allow water to get into your basement. You need to make sure your gutters and downspouts are cleaned out, fully connected, and draining freely. Also, check the location of your discharge for your downspouts and your sump pump. We recommend these discharge at least 10 feet away from your property.

Watch where the water flows in your yard, and pay special attention to any pools of water close to your foundation. It’s common for the soil next to your foundation to settle over the course of the seasons, so you may need to add some topsoil next to fill in any low spots that have formed. Focus on a 6-foot perimeter around your home to make sure the soil distinctly slopes properly away from the foundation,

What To Do If You Find a Problem

If you see any problems, you should get them checked out right away. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We’ll thoroughly evaluate your property and give you a professional recommendation to solve the problem for good.

Visit our Ultimate Guide to Waterproofing Your Kansas City Home for more articles that will help you keep the basement of you Kansas City Metro area home dry and strong.

Proud to provide Professional Basement Waterproofing and Foundation Repair to the families in Topeka, Kansas. See our Service Area page to find out all the Kansas and Missouri cities we serve.

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This was Wonderful experience for what we had to get done , Julian and Melvin did a wonderful job,couldn't be happier!!!
Fran was very friendly, helpful and informative. I knew exactly what the options were to repair my basement. I highly recommend Kc Waterproofing and Foundation Repair.
Mario from KC Waterproofing performed a wonderful job. He was professional in demeanor and worked throughout the HOT day in order to correct a drainage problem in our yard. We would have Mario back again to perform any drainage support work we need to have done in the future.
Company was straightforward and communicated well and often. Owner called several times to schedule, check process and ensure everything was satisfactory. Very good pricing compared to other companies. Very professional with the design.
Ryan and his crew did a good job…cleaned up good when thru. Also offered suggestions that helped us.
Mario was incredibly professional, knowledgeable, and efficient. He arrived right on time and quickly diagnosed the issue we were having. He thoroughly explained what needed to be done, answered all my questions patiently, and even offered some helpful tips for ongoing maintenance. The service was completed promptly, and he left the area cleaner than he found it. Five Star service!
The guys worked Thier butts off! They did the job in a timely manor, respected our old house and cleaned the site up when done. Ok this is our second job with KC Waterproofing, we highly recommend!
I’ve had their waterproofing system and carbon fiber straps installed in my house. They did a great job and ensured my personal property was protected. Everyone involved was professional and very friendly. Thank you Mario and Connor for your hard work on the latest project!
They came and did a free inspection for me and the guy who did the inspection was super nice and helpful and we grew up in the same area out of state
KC Waterproofing is amazing! I misread the date of my service they were able to get me in that weekend so I could have additional work done on my basement the following Monday. I am so happy with the work they did, Mario was great and always showed up on time and does exceptional work. The communication with the office staff is also really great and I never felt in the dark about the work I was having done. Overall I will be recommending them to anyone who needs foundation work!
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