Wet Basement? When to Call in the Foundation Experts
/Spring is here – and with it, the season of wet basements.
Spring’s thaw and rain showers can quickly lead to moisture and mould issues in basements. So when you notice you have a wet basement, there’s no time to waste!
Here are three tips to follow to remove any moisture from your basement as quickly as possible.
Step #1) Remove the Water – FAST!
When your basement has flooded, you’ll need to remove the water immediately to avoid permanent damage. Besides water damage to flooring, furniture and baseboards, mould and mildew can form, leading to air quality problems.
Before you start removing water, remember to turn off the power and gas. Then, use a water pump in conjunction with a wet/dry vacuum to get rid of the water from your basement.
Once the water has been pumped out, rent a blower from your local hardware store to dry out the remaining moisture. A dehumidifier can also help with this process. Use an ozone generator to eliminate any lingering odours.
When to Call a Foundation Expert: Sometimes, there is simply too much water in your basement to tackle on your own. If that’s the case, a basement contractor should be called.
Step #2) Find the Cause of Leaky Basement
Once the water has been removed, it’s time to find the source of the damage. Since leaks can get bigger over time, your wet basement problem could be even worse if left undetected.
When hydrostatic pressure allows water to get in through cracks, basement water damage can occur. Closely check your basement’s walls and floor for cracks.
When to Call a Foundation Expert: If you’re finding it hard to determine the water source or don’t have any idea what to do next if you do find it, call a basement expert.
Step #3) Wet Basement Repairs
Although concrete-like sealants are available to seal cracks after they’ve been plugged with caulking, they’re only a temporary solution. Eventually, the water pressure will push through again or entirely new cracks will form in the concrete.
A pump and drainage system installed in the concrete floor is a great long-term solution for wet basements, just like epoxy injection and weave carbon fibre blanket repairs.
Depending on your particular issue, other solutions include a functional sump pump and/or dehumidifier installation or basement waterproofing.
Outside cracks and openings in the foundation are also common sources for basement flooding. If this is the case with your home, then your foundation needs to be waterproofed. Excavation around your home’s perimeter will be required before repairing the foundation wall. Parging may be completed and new weeping tile will be installed.
When to Call a Foundation Expert: Determining the best long-term solution for your wet basement is best left to a professional. Since your home’s structure and foundation could be the source, you’ll benefit from a professional fixing the problem.
No matter what the cause is for your wet basement, it’s crucial that you get it looked after right away. Delaying the repairs will only lead to more damage and potentially more expensive repairs the next time your basement floods. For foundation repair in St. Catharines, Beamsville, and Niagara Ontario, call Foundation Fix today!
