Leaks don’t happen only during the rainy seasons. During winter also, basement leaks are a common issue. Though many factors are responsible for basement leaks the main culprit is moisture accumulation.
Remember that moisture accumulation doesn’t only occur during heavy rains. During winter our homes are also surrounded by water but in the frozen form that is snow. So, before you call a professional to get your basement leaks repaired, you must know the reasons behind these leaks.
Heat Radiation
The basement is the snuggest area in our homes. This is the reason no matter how freezing it is outside our basements always remain significantly warmer than the outside temperature and radiates heat. This radiated heat tends to melt the snow that covers the ground outside and the melting of snow leads to moisture creation. This moisture gets trapped between the basement walls and the soil. When too much moisture gets accumulated and getting no other place to go this moisture ends up leaking into our basements and makes it flooded with time.
Hydrostatic Pressure
This hydrostatic pressure plays a significant role in making your basement leak. As said in the previous point, the heat radiated by the basement makes the snow on the ground outside melt and the moisture generated gets trapped between the walls of the basement and the soil. From here the hydrostatic pressure comes into action. It forces out the accumulated moisture from the cracks and holes in your basement walls. When this was not enough, this pressure can also create new cracks to push the moisture out in case the moisture accumulation increases and finds no other place to flow. If you want we can help you clean out your flooded basement in Boca Raton.
Wrong Soil
The wrong type of soil backed by ineffective draining also causes water to get trapped. If the soil around your house does not absorb water properly then it will again lead to moisture accumulation between the walls of your basement and the ground eventually building the pressures that will result in leaks. If the surrounding soil is unable to drain water properly then it is suggested to replace it with loamy soil as it is best in absorbing the extra moisture. According to Harwich Water Department, loamy soil can absorb water at the rate of ¼ to 2 inches per hour.
Damaged Sump Pump
There must be a sump pump in your basement and this sump pump can sometimes cause your basement to get flooded. You must know that sump pumps are responsible for collecting and draining out water from your house. If this sump pump malfunctions then it will fail to draw the water and will flood your basement.
Leaky Windows
Windows are meant for allowing light to enter your basement but these windows can sometimes also allow water to enter causing your basement to get flooded. So, make sure that windows are properly sealed and do not have any cracks.
Clogged Drains
The simplest way to prevent your basements from getting flooded is to ensure that the drains are draining water properly. Clogs can happen in your house’s sewer lines as well as in municipal sewer lines. These clogged drains push water back into the pipes due to which our basements get flooded.
Conclusion
If it is not raining it does not mean that there are no chances of water accumulation. Keep these factors in mind and get your basement checked before winter approaches as prevention is always better than cure.
