Basements are prone to moisture problems. They appear quickly and can cause significant damage. Therefore, groundwater in the basement should be addressed as soon as possible. This can be done in various ways, depending on how the moisture problem originated and how far the moisture in the basement has spread. Below, we’ll explain the causes of groundwater in the basement and how we can combat it.
What are the Causes of Groundwater in the Basement?
Do you see groundwater in the basement? Then you’re dealing with a moisture problem. Groundwater can enter your basement in various ways. This shouldn’t be surprising, as the basement is naturally surrounded by groundwater.
Groundwater in the Basement of Old Houses
The most obvious reason for groundwater in the basement is a defect in the walls or the basement floor. A crack or fissure in the basement wall practically guarantees groundwater in the basement. These cracks can occur due to a construction error or street works, but usually a defective wall is simply due to age. Over the years, bricks become porous, weaker, and more easily absorb water. At freezing temperatures, the frozen water expands and causes cracks in the bricks. This results in groundwater in the basement.
A High Water Table Leads to Groundwater in the Basement
In old basements, the joint between the wall and floor is the most vulnerable spot for moisture problems. This is where the basement walls and floor meet. Groundwater can most easily penetrate there, especially when the groundwater pressure is high. This is the case after heavy rainfall.
Groundwater in the Basement through the Basement Floor
Furthermore, the basement floor can also cause problems. Generally, the basement floor is made of concrete, which excellently prevents groundwater from entering. However, if the concrete wasn’t mixed properly during construction, gravel nests can form. These are spots where gravel clumps together and more easily allows water to pass through.
Why should You Address Groundwater in the Basement Quickly?
Groundwater in the basement is a common problem. But that doesn’t mean it shouldn’t be addressed quickly. It’s crucial to take action as soon as possible and invite a moisture expert.
Groundwater in the basement can have significant consequences for your home. Damp spots on the walls are not only unsightly but also weaken the structure. Damp bricks are much more brittle and consequently less sturdy. You’d rather avoid that, of course.
But your health is also at risk. Moisture often goes hand in hand with mold, which produces toxic spores. This creates an unpleasant living environment where you may experience respiratory problems.
How Do We Combat Groundwater in the Basement?
To effectively and purposefully address groundwater in the basement, we must first be very certain of the cause of the moisture. Groundwater can penetrate the basement in various ways, and each type of moisture problem requires a different treatment. Therefore, it’s always important to work together with a moisture expert.
Wall Injections against Groundwater in the Basement
When the groundwater enters through a specific spot in the basement wall and the moisture problem is very small, a wall injection may suffice. This is the most cost-effective method of moisture control. We drill holes in the weak spot in the wall and fill them with a moisture-repelling agent.
Basement Tanking or Basement Drainage against Groundwater
But usually, we need to use more robust methods. We often use basement tanking. In this process, we first dry out the basement and then cover the basement walls and floor with multiple layers of water-repellent cement. This essentially creates a basement within the basement. Is the moisture problem so severe that there’s often groundwater in the basement? Then basement drainage might be advisable. A subtle pump system consistently pumps away the water. This pump system is covered with new basement walls and a new floor.
What other Moisture Problems are at the Root of Dampness in the Basement?
Not only groundwater causes moisture problems in basements. Condensation also causes quite a few headaches. Basements usually can’t be ventilated, resulting in high humidity levels . This leads to a lot of condensation, and these condensation droplets can penetrate the basement walls. Very often, condensation is accompanied by mold, especially in the basement. The only solution is a mechanical ventilation system. We also recommend always installing a ventilation system in the basement to prevent moisture problems.
Solusio Banishes Groundwater from your Basement
Are you having trouble with groundwater in your basement? Then it’s especially important to take action quickly. The experts at Solusio are happy to help you out. We have extensive experience and expertise and tackle groundwater in the basement in a professional manner.
We always first investigate the exact cause and then propose the best treatment. Contact us today for an appointment or more information.