It is alarming how basement water leaks is a common problem in America with the American Society of Home Inspectors estimating 60% of homeowners in the country have problems relating to the basement water. New constructions too face this problem. So there are chances that each house owner has to go through this problem once in a lifetime.
There are many reasons for problems in the basement from flood, water seepage to window wells. Basements are the lowest part of the house thus they are prone to flooding especially if you live in a flood prone area or an area where the rainwater gets accumulated easily.
To protect your property from the water is to apply some flood controls. Raise the home on stilts or install foundation vents while you apply coatings and sealants on the basement walls to control the problem. You can install check valves on the pipes too. Learn more about some other tips too, that will help you solve these problems.
Water sometimes seeps through cracks in the walls or other porous materials. Cracks are developed either horizontally or vertically. Horizontal cracks are serious as they are caused by pressure against the walls. Water seepage can be detected by keeping the basement walls and floors in check whenever it rains.
Some house owners may feel helpless when they see water seeping inside the basement. But it is not difficult to maintain water free basements. Make sure there is good air supply and light in the basement. Add gutter extensions, install plug gaps around plumbing pipes, repair the footing drains, and seal all the cracks in walls and floors to make the basement water and moisture free.