Leaking basements can wreak havoc because, regardless of how widespread or heavy the leaking is, the water can cause serious damage and additional problems like mold. Fortunately, when you follow some tips for preventing leaks in your basement, you’re less likely to experience a water leak in Sacramento and the accompanying headache. Here are some ways to help prevent leaking.
How to Prevent Basement Leaks
Check Rain Gutters
One of the most important ways to keep your basement from leaking is to keep water away from the foundation in the first place. The rain gutters are responsible for directing rainwater away from the home, but they often get overlooked as a method for keeping your basement dry. The rain gutters need to be regularly cleaned and inspected to ensure that the gutters aren’t spilling over and allowing water to settle around the foundation. You may need a downspout extension to direct water further away from the home.
Change the Grade
Another way to keep water from pooling around the foundation and eventually seeping into the basement is to change the grade around your home. The soil or grass right around the foundation should slope at least a quarter-inch for every foot so that the water will drain away from your home, rather than towards it. All you need to do is add soil so that it’s highest around the entire foundation.
Planting Considerations
It’s also important to think about the types of trees and shrubs you’re planting around your home. The vegetation closest to your house should be flowers or bushes that have shallow, thin roots. Larger trees that have aggressive root systems should be planted at least twenty feet away from the house to prevent the roots from making the soil unsettled or even causing small cracks in the walls of the basement.
Look for Leaks
It’s important to periodically check the basement for signs of a leak and to determine where the leak is coming from. You’ll often be able to see streaks between mortar joints or from the corner of windows. It can be a little more difficult to see where the leaks are on the exterior, so it’s a good idea to contact professional water leak detection to positively identify where the water is penetrating.
Seal Cracks
If you can see visible cracks in the foundation, use hydraulic cement to patch the holes. This type of cement contains additives that allow it to expand in the cracks and set quickly. It has a putty-like consistency, so it’s not difficult to press into the weak areas, although it does need to be used quickly after being mixed.
Check Window Wells
Make sure you check the window wells and windows for signs of leaking. You can help prevent leaking through the window wells by digging down a couple feet and adding gravel so that the water won’t collect in the window well.
Waterproof Walls
There are different waterproofing paints or products you can apply to the walls to help fill in tiny surface holes and keep moisture from seeping into your basement.
If Leaking Continues
If you’re having continued leaking problems even with your best efforts, it’s important to get professional help. You could have a hidden water line leak in Sacramento or other issues that only a professional can identify. Locating the leak is vital for avoiding the additional problems that come from excess moisture in the basement. To schedule your appointment, contact Bullseye Leak Detection, Inc., today.
