Buying A Home? Look For These Potential Causes of Basement Water IssuesWhen purchasing a home in Milwaukee, Racine, Kenosha, or Waukesha, Wisconsin one of the biggest potential problem areas is the foundation. If you don't have a home inspection you may miss some of these potential problems. Water has a significant negative effect on a foundation. Keeping water away from the foundation is critical to prevent foundation problems. It can be related to cracked foundation walls, bowed foundation walls, water intrusion, and basement moisture issues. Home inspectors look for several clues on the exterior and interior of a house to locate current and potential foundation related issues. Often these issues can be mitigated with some simple solutions and prevention by homeowners. Negative Grading Towards the FoundationNegative grading refers to the yard around the house grading towards the foundation meaning that water is not moving away from the foundation. Water should flow away from the foundation. The first ten feet near the foundation is the most important area to keep water from the foundation. The photo shows negative grading towards the house. Downspouts Too Close To the HouseDownspouts should drain a minimum 6 feet from the foundation. During a home inspection one of the most common causes of moisture problems at a foundation are downspouts that empty at or too close to the foundation. Often downspouts drain right at the corner of the foundation. Over time they can lead to significant moisture problems. Sump Pump Not FunctioningSump pump problems causing the drainage system not to move water from the foundation properly can cause moisture related issues. A house without a sump pump can often have more moisture related foundation issues than a house with a sump pump. Foundation MaterialsFoundation materials such as brick, stone, and certain masonry blocks are more prone to allow moisture to penetrate through the foundation. Materials that have more joints or have more porous materials can allow moisture to pass through the wall. These foundations need regular maintenance to keep moisture out. Older foundations do not have the same waterproofing that modern foundation walls do. Foundation CracksFoundation cracks can allow moisture through the foundation. Some foundation cracks can cause significant moisture intrusion. Cracks can sometimes cause structural problems. Foundation cracks can often be repaired by being properly sealed.
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2/23/2022 05:21:12 am
If your basement has been flooded, it's important to clean it up as soon as possible to prevent any health problems. The first thing you should do is remove any water-logged items and furniture. Next, use a shop vacuum or a wet/dry vacuum to remove the remaining water. If the water is deep, you may need to use a submersible pump. After the water is removed, use a dehumidifier to dry out the basement. 8/26/2022 04:10:59 am
Although it may seem obvious, you should always look for interior leaks before figuring out what's causing dampness in your basement. Numerous things, including showers, sinks, toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, and broken pipes, might cause a water leak. Sometimes an internal water leak is to blame if the dampness in your basement is found on the ceiling or walls under a bathroom or kitchen. Determine the source of the moisture and see if there is a leak there. 11/4/2023 02:42:58 pm
To prevent basement flooding following the discovery of foundation leaks during a home inspection, it is crucial to take immediate action. Engage a professional contractor to promptly address the foundation leaks, including sealing cracks and repairing damaged waterproofing. Additionally, focus on enhancing exterior drainage by ensuring proper grading away from the foundation, maintaining gutter systems, and redirecting water away from the house. Consider installing or upgrading a sump pump in the basement, applying interior waterproofing, evaluating the need for French drains, and maintaining ventilation and dehumidification. Regular inspections and professional consultation are key to safeguarding your home against flooding, ensuring its long-term integrity and your peace of mind. Leave a Reply. |
AuthorBob Carter is a home inspector in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. He is the owner of Dairyland Home Inspection. Archives
June 2021
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