Rainwater can cause a lot of problems in a basement, which is why homeowners are usually advised to install quality gutter systems. The systems, together with the downspouts, should drain the water from the roof away from the foundation. Without them, the drainage mechanisms in the basement will become overwhelmed, and water will find its way in at the section where the wall meets the floor.
Trying to prevent the leak by piling dirt on the outside wall is not a good solution. On the contrary, it could lead to the foundation walls also dampening.
Signs and causes
Some of the signs that indicate that the foundation drainage is not working as it should include water seeping through the seams or cracks on the floor. The more water pools near the foundation, the more hydrostatic pressure it will have, causing it to push through the weakest spots as it tries to find a way out.
Sometimes this problem occurs when dirt accumulates in the drainage system, resulting in clogging. Poor installation and roots spreading and covering the drainage entrance are other common causes. To keep the issues from getting worse, seek the best basement waterproofing in Scarborough during the construction or as soon as you notice any of these signs.
Stopping water leaks at the seams
Whatever method of repair you choose, having a new drainage system will be mandatory. The drains can be inside or outside, so long as they get rid of the hydrostatic pressure from the pooling water near or under the basement. Interior installation is usually done under the floors to target the groundwater.
Waterproofing the basement from the inside is just as effective as doing it from the outside. In some cases, interior waterproofing is the better option out of the two because it ensures water does not get trapped under the basement floor.
If you only have exterior drains, water could still seep in and damage the foundation. However, these drains are the perfect solution for water problems in foundation walls. These are usually characterized by wet walls or the presence of stains, which signifies that water is running down the walls. Bubbling paint and consistent dampness in the basement are also signs that the seal installed during construction has worn off, leaving the walls exposed to excess moisture from outside.
Professional evaluation
Water seeping in through the seams between the basement walls and floors can be stopped quickly with the right basement waterproofing steps. Call the experts to assess the area and determine a long-lasting solution, especially if you intend to use the basement as a livable space. You have to choose your contractor carefully since some of them tend to prefer the easiest methods instead of the most permanent ones.
Consider several solutions for basement leaks at the seams to ensure you implement the one that will tackle water issues from outside and inside. If you need more professional help, contact Direct Waterproofing today.