We have been hearing from clients regarding water seepage into basements recently. Clients are looking for answers as to whether this is normal and what to do to address it. As with any home concern it is essential to understand the underlying cause. This will help to determine the best solution for your unique situation. Things to consider: Is this an ongoing problem or a more recent problem as the recent snow thaws? Or does it occur during spring rainstorms? Is there a crack the water is coming in at? Is your current drainage system up to date and maintained? Are your gutters working appropriately? Do you notice standing water in your yard or along your foundation?
At Hughes Construction Company we strive to help our clients make informed decisions regarding their projects. When it comes to foundation concerns, this all starts with hiring a licensed structural engineer. This upfront investment enables you to know exactly what you need for repairs and the best method of repair for your situation. The engineer will determine if the issue at hand is a result of drainage problems, grading problems, lack of waterproofing as well as whether there are any foundation issues that need to be addressed or any structural concerns. If you are experiencing cracks in your foundation the engineer will determine the type of crack and the appropriate remedy if needed.
In addition, this step provides peace of mind that you are correcting your home the right way the first time. The last thing you want to do is invest in work that turns out to be a fail. If it turns out that the fix isn’t appropriate for the circumstances at hand, this can be costly to address after the fact. These licensed individuals are the most qualified to inspect the property and determine what exactly is the issue and why. They take into consideration all the factors impacting your situation and provide you with recommendations tailored to your home’s unique needs.
As a reminder having the proper drainage system in place for your home’s needs as well as maintaining it is key. As we have mentioned before, over time window wells and drainage systems can become clogged and even collapse. If left unaddressed water can accumulate and infiltrate the home leading to foundation concerns.
It should be noted that allowing moisture to infiltrate the home can over time result in structural issues as well as lead to issues with mold growth and health concerns.
Do you have questions or concerns about your home’s foundation or drainage system? Experiencing water seepage and not sure where to start? Please feel free to reach out to us via our contact form. In addition to your project description feel free to upload photos. Our staff reviews each project and will reach out within one to two business days, depending on the volume of inquiries.
Stay tuned for our upcoming post on Frequently Asked Questions Part 2! We will dive deeper into specific questions related to water infiltration, snow melt ponding and other drainage issues.
Project in Photos below:
We injected fourteen (14) lineal feet of foundation cracks with urethane foam to stop water seepage. The cracks had been previously injected by another contractor however the previous injections did not solve the seepage. Knowing the type of crack prior to the repair is crucial! This valuable information ensures that the appropriate material is being injected to resolve the issue at hand.
