A common problem affecting houses with underground space is basement leaks. Repairing basement leaks is important to protect the foundation of the house and prevent illnesses from entering the household. Solving the problem on leaking basements can be an easy job if one is familiar with the problem. The following information about this basement problem will prove helpful.
There are many ways for moisture to enter the basement. Water has a nasty way of penetrating wooden, plastic or concrete surfaces, especially if these are not properly installed and when there is heavy downpour. Water seeps in through tiny cracks and pores and accumulates, until the amount is too much for the walls or floors to handle.
The first to get damage from leaks in the basement is thefoundation of the house. This is dangerous, considering how the house foundation is the one supporting the entire structure. Rain and floodwater seep in through the tiny cracks in the walls and flooring and accumulate. This damages the house foundation which will prove catastrophic if left unattended.
Repainting The Walls Fresh
Locate the cracks in the walls and floor and sand the surface thoroughly so that when you repaint them the new cement and paint will adhere well. Repairing basement leaks requires the use of polyurethane injected into the cracks in liquid form. Once the solution gets in contact with water, foam is formed to fill the cracks fully and tightly, thus preventing water from seeping in again.
The dryer vent is one common way for moisture to form in the basement. The vent release should therefore release moisture outside. Air conditioning units should be insulated properly to prevent condensation.
Fast-Setting Hydraulic Cement
One effective way to address cracks in cement structures is the fast-setting hydraulic cement. Once all cracks have been covered, masonry proofing must be applied to a thickness of two inches. This do-it-yourself tip is helpful if you find a basement costly hiring contractor.
There are other causes of leaks in the basement other than cracks in the walls or floors. One of these is the clay bowl effect. This happens when part of the foundation of the house stands in the way of a water path that leads to springs and other water bodies, causing water build up. This build up of water is worse in claysoil.
Drainage Breakdown
A damaged drainage system causes water clogging in the area around the house. The water then builds up in the backfill, resulting in hydrostatic pressure. Because of the pressure, the water is pushed into the basement, until it finds its way into tiny cracks and leaks. The hydrostatic pressure joins forces with gravity, excessive flooding and other soil activities, a combination too much for the cracks in the basement to handle.
Although often neglected, the basement is an important part of the house. Basement leaks should be addressed immediately to prevent the condition from deteriorating and affecting the rest of the household.
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