If you are homeowner with a basement, then you might have experienced, or are currently experiencing a leaky basement. Leaking basements are extremely common and any kind of foundation is vulnerable to an eventual leak. There are two main causes of leaks; the first is from natural occurrences that take place outside of the basement and the second is from a flaw in the foundation’s structure. Learning more about the causes and sources can to get rid of the leak permanently.
When there is heavy or persistent rain, the water is collected by soil closer to the surface. This can cause the soil to expand, which will create lateral pressure against a foundation, which can eventually lead to cracks and leaks in the basement. There are also structural reasons for leaking basement. Basement floors are typically thin layers of concrete that are only 2-4 inches in depth. The floor also does not play much of a role in a home’s foundation. Instead, the floor is just to provide a solid base. The thin layer can be prone to cracks if not properly sealed, and these cracks can lead to leaks. Similarly, the most common kind of basement leak is from a poured concrete wall. These cracks can be caused by lateral pressure or minor dropping or settling of the foundation. Minor cracks can be fixed by injecting the crack with an expanding polyurethane sealer.
When it comes to basements, prevention is the best way to go. If you don’t want to deal with a leaky basement, then protect your basement before it’s too late. Waterproofing your basement is a surefire way to make sure that your basement is protected against any future damage. With a basement that’s been waterproofed, you can rest easy knowing that your home will be kept secure from water damage and costly repairs in the future. If you are looking into waterproofing Los Angeles is an area serviced by West Coast Decking & Waterproofing professional so make sure to check them out for all your waterproofing needs.