Improper water drainage is one of the main causes of basement leaks. Water builds up around your foundation, creating hydrostatic pressure that damages your basement walls. Watching for signs of bad water drainage will allow you to correct the problem when it starts, which will ultimately save you money in home repairs. Here are common warning signs to look out for.
Bowed Or Stained Basement Walls
One of the easiest ways to spot improper water drainage is to look at your basement walls. If they are bowed out, that could be from the water pressure outside of your home. If they have water stains on them, that means that you have some sort of leak. The leak may not be from groundwater in your soil, but it is still worth looking into. If you have a broken water pipe running through your basement, it is only a matter of time before it busts and creates a flood.
Clogged Gutters And Downspouts
Your guttering is one of the primary fixtures for your water drainage system. Clogged gutters and downspouts cannot properly direct water away from your home. Every time it rains, your roofing and your foundation are susceptible to damage. Thankfully, correcting this problem may be as simple as cleaning out your gutters. If your gutters are clean and they still aren’t directing water right, you may need to repair or replace them. Once water is effectively drawn away from your property, you will have a much lower risk of basement water damage.
Foundation Cracks And Floor Damage
Water can come in through your basement flooring. If you see pools of water on the ground where they aren’t supposed to be, it’s time to get an inspection. Groundwater can also build up underneath your home, which may shift the foundation over time. Michigan’s soil contains high levels of sand due to the Great Lakes nearby, so the soil in this area shifts more easily than in other parts of the country. You may notice small cracks in your flooring that get larger with age. With foundation piering from Tom’s Basement Waterproofing, you can lock your foundation into place and avoid future cracking.
If you would like a foundation inspection or a water drainage evaluation in Michigan, contact us at (586) 776-7270 to schedule an appointment. One of our local foundation experts would be more than happy to assist you.