Do you live in an area that experiences cold winters? If so, you may be familiar with the potential for your basement to leak during this time of year. Not only can this be a nuisance, but it can also cause damage to your home if not taken care of quickly. And no one wants to deal with the hassle of fixing a leaky basement in the winter. So why does this happen? Here are some common reasons why your basement might leak in the winter and need repair by a professional basement waterproofing service.
Reasons for Leaks
Cracks in Basement Floors or Walls
Foundation flaws are the leading source of worry regarding your basement's well-being. If your home's foundation has minor cracks or is failing, high pressure on the foundation can lead to water entering the basement. Also, the soil around your home can expand in cold weather, creating pressure on the foundation. This pressure may be enough to cause cracks in the basement. These cracks can be patched, but it's best to call a professional basement waterproofing Tennessee and have them address the issue.
Downspouts, Gutters, and Window Wells Draining Improperly
Improper drainage around a home can cause water to accumulate and enter the basement through various points. Ensure that your downspouts, gutters, and window wells are all correctly draining away from your home. This will help reduce the amount of water that accumulates near your foundation, helping to avoid basement leaks.
Basement Effectively Melt Snow Thorugh Heat Emission
With the winter weather biting at your door, take comfort in knowing that you have a cozy refuge to turn to. Your basement – finished or unfinished – is much more inviting than the harshness of the outdoors and provides an escape from frigid temperatures outside. However, this can also have a detrimental effect. Your basement may be warmer than the outside temperature and emit heat that melts the snow nearby. If this runoff is not properly drained away, it can pool around your foundation and enter the basement. The professional foundation repair in Knoxville, TN, can help ensure this doesn't happen and your basement stays dry.
Choosing the Wrong Soil Type
The soil around your basement is paramount when removing water damage from leakage. Select soil with correct drainage and water flow to ensure proper moisture levels around your home. Doing so will prevent problems associated with excess humidity or pooling water.
When the incorrect soil and inadequate drainage come together, excess moisture will be permitted to accumulate and remain stagnant against your basement walls. This can cause mold to form, damaging your home's structure and your family's health. A professional basement waterproofing company can test the soil and recommend keeping your basement dry.
Your Sump Pump Isn't Doing Its Job
The sump pump collects wastewater and moves it away from home. Over time, these pumps can become clogged or break down due to age. Inadequate sump pump performance can cause water to back up and pool in the basement. If your sump pump is not working perfectly, it's important to call a professional foundation repair to inspect and repair it to ensure your basement stays dry.
The Slope Near Your Foundation is Imperfectly Designed
The soil encompassing your foundation should always be graded away from the house, regardless of the terrain it is situated on. To protect your home's foundation from water damage, the soil around its base should be sloped down 6 inches in an outward direction away from it. This will help ensure that any rainwater is diverted away instead of allowed to accumulate near the root of your home. If the soil is not properly graded, the excess water can seep through to your basement and cause long-term damage. Professional basement waterproofing can help you identify and correct any issues with your foundation's slope.
Related Reads: Why basement waterproofing in winter is a good idea.
How Can I Ensure My Basement Remains Dry This Winter Season?
Thoroughly Examine the Drainage System
To find the source of your basement flooding, carefully examine the inside and outside of your home. Begin by assessing any exterior areas near or surrounding your house before moving indoors to pinpoint where water is entering. Check to see if your gutters and downspouts are draining properly away from home, check for any cracks in the foundation or walls that could be allowing water to enter, and inspect all window wells for any debris that could be preventing proper drainage.
Once you've inspected the outside of your home, ensure all interior drains, such as basement floor drains and laundry tubs, are connected and draining correctly. Additionally, check for any cracks in your window frames or walls that could let water into the home.
Select the Optimal and Appropriate Waterproofing System for Maximum Efficiency
If left unattended, the crevices in your walls could lead to various unwelcome outcomes, such as leaking pipes, clogged drains, damaged sewer lines, shifting foundations, and even too much backfilling during renovation. If you notice a leaky basement during the winter, you may need to consult an experienced plumber to determine potential causes.
As every basement leakage condition is different, you must find the best waterproofing system that meets your home's unique needs. Professional basement waterproofing services in Knoxville, TN, are available to assess your basement's condition and provide the optimal waterproofing system and solutions to keep you safe and dry.
Repair your Basement Inside and Out
Once you have determined the source of the water and the best course of action for waterproofing, it's time to begin repairs. Inside the home, start by fixing cracks in the foundation and walls, replacing broken window frames or seals, and checking for plumbing repair needs. Then move outdoors to ensure the soil is graded away from home, clean out gutters and downspouts, and repair any cracks or damaged sections of your foundation.
Final Verdict
When protecting your home from water damage, it's important to take all the necessary steps to ensure your basement remains dry and safe. By inspecting the exterior and interior of your home for any potential sources of water leakage, selecting the best waterproofing system, and repairing any trouble areas, you can successfully prevent your basement from flooding and protect your home from costly damage. If you suspect water leaks into your basement, contact a Knoxville professional basement waterproofing service for an assessment and help with repairs. With their experience and expertise, you can be sure that your basement will remain dry and safe all winter season.