Is there a musty smell in your basement? Do the walls seem wet? These are indications that your basement has been exposed to water. Sadly, water in your basement can damage the walls, floors, and furniture. Moisture accumulation also promotes mold growth, a serious health hazard.
So, when you notice any signs of water damage in your basement, you must call the basement repair professionals to handle the issue. The specialists can identify the water source, cut it off, and repair the damage to restore your basement. So, where is the water in your basement coming from? Read on to find out.
1. Hydrostatic Pressure
There is always water deep beneath the ground. However, the depth of the water level depends on your location. For instance, the water table in a desert will be much deeper than one near a body of water. However, this water table can rise in various situations. For example, the soil will sometimes absorb water when it begins raining or snowing until it becomes saturated.
Once the soil gets saturated, the water table will start rising, creating hydrostatic pressure. Consequently, water will look for escape routes to release this pressure. Remember that your basement floors are found underground. Therefore, the accumulated pressure might cause water to find its way through the cracks to your basement floors.
2. Lateral Pressure
The soil around your home's foundation also absorbs water, which drains off well during normal weather conditions. However, this soil will absorb water and expand during heavy rains and snow. The absorption and expansion rates depend on the soil type you have in your landscape. For instance, clay soil will expand more than sand soil after absorbing water because it drains slowly.
Moreover, the soil around your house is not compact since contractors excavated and backfilled the soil when constructing your house. When this soil expands, it creates lateral pressure against your foundation. Such pressure will cause water to leak into your basement and cause extensive foundation damage.
3. Window Well Leakage
Having a window in your basement is important to let air and light into the space. However, when you experience drainage problems or serious downpours, the window well traps some water inside it. As water accumulates inside this well, it will begin exerting pressure on your basement window and its seals. Eventually, this water might begin seeping through the cracks and gaps around your window. Unfortunately, if a lot of pressure builds up, your window seals will finally break, creating a more serious issue.
Water buildup in your basement can lead to serious damage. Therefore, don't wait until the last minute to call the basement repair contractors. Instead, look for signs of moisture in your basement and call the professionals immediately after you spot them. The experts are experienced and equipped to deal with all basement problems and will restore your basement's condition within no time.
For more information, contact a company like J&J All Around Construction And Roofing.
