If you own a house then you know how important, time consuming, and sometimes expensive it can be to fix problems. From checking floor stability to cleaning floors to maintaining the roof. But sometimes you may forget to check one of the most important parts of your house, the basement. While you may not use the basement as much as the rest of the house, you still have to check on it. Sometimes even a little puddle could be a threat to the entire foundation.
The experts who know basement waterproofing in Pennsylvania say that basements are vulnerable to moisture and need be taken care of. However, most people tend to ignore the water in the basement. If not treated it could lead to structural damage and even cause toxic mold. But what exactly causes water problems in the basement? Experts say that a basement is a sensitive, low lying area that is often under tremendous pressure from external forces and therefore tends to attract water.
Here are some common causes of water seepage in the basement.
1.Poor Drainage System
The experts of basement waterproofing in Pennsylvania say that when rainwater is not drained properly, it tends to find a way into your basement. Rainwater or drainage water when not drained properly will accumulate in the basement. It could stay in the basement for a while and start feeding on the basement flooring leading to mold.
2.Improper Gutters
Gutters are installed to keep the rainwater away from the house. But if not installed properly these gutters could end up redirecting the water into the basement! Once the water gets into the basement it will damage the structure. Little by little the moisture will spread into the whole basement, making it weak and beyond repair if not checked regularly.
3.Water Leak
This may seem very obvious but you must check your basement thoroughly for any leaks. A leakage could start from anywhere, a sink, a shower, a toilet, a washing machine or a cracked pipe. So, you must thoroughly check the basement for moisture and take action immediately if you find any damage.
4.Wrong Slope
The slope around the foundation of your house must always direct the water away from your house. But if the gradient is wrong it will steer the water towards the basement. You probably didn’t build the slope around your home, but it can cause a major problem. A little bit of water can do serious damage, even damaging your foundation.
5.Cracks in the Wall
Water is always looking for the point of least resistance. This is often a simple crack in the wall. When the cracks in your wall go unnoticed for a period of weeks, months, or years, water will find it’s way into your home