We use the term “hydrostatic pressure” a lot when discussing foundation repairs and basement waterproofing in Michigan. This is another term for water pressure that surrounds your basement when it rains or snows. Any time there is excess water in the ground, your foundation takes a hit. Luckily, there are steps you can take to reduce the damage and maintain the structural integrity of the property.
Let’s take a look at what hydrostatic pressure is and what you can do to fight it.
What Is Hydrostatic Pressure?
Hydrostatic pressure is any sort of pressure caused by water – specifically static water like what’s left in the ground after a rain storm. This can apply to a wide variety of situations, but for our purposes, it describes the water pressure applied to your foundation. The force may come on the side of your basement walls or underneath your actual foundation. As long as your home is properly prepared, it will be strong enough to withstand the force until the water evaporates or washes away.
Dangers Of Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure can lead to a number of problems, including:
- Bowed basement walls
- Cracked concrete
- Cracks in the foundation
- Uneven foundation
- Basement leaks or basement flooding (and the water damage that comes with that)
- Mold and mildew
- Rusted plumbing under your home
- Expedited foundation settling
- Soil erosion
- …and more
Needless to say, there aren’t a lot of good things that come from hydrostatic pressure. Nevertheless, this is a force surrounding every home in Michigan, and it is one you have to be ready for. The team of experts here at Tom’s Basement Waterproofing is here to help you do just that.
How To Fight Hydrostatic Pressure
There is no way to fully get rid of hydrostatic pressure because you cannot control Mother Nature. Instead, you can prepare your home for the force to come so it does not suffer any damage with high water levels. Basement waterproofing and foundation repairs are two of the most common ways to fight hydrostatic pressure. The waterproofing process prevents water from getting into your basement, and foundation repairs fix existing issues that could make you more susceptible to damage.
To get a free foundation evaluation or to learn more about how to prepare your home for hydrostatic pressure, contact Tom’s Basement Waterproofing.