Leaky basements are big problems for homeowners. They can cause harmful mold and mildew growth, as well as cause significant structural damage. Though you may think a burst pipe or an overflowing washing machine is the cause of excessive moisture in your basement, they aren’t the only issues you should be concerned about. Learn more below about how water can infiltrate your home through outside sources. 

What Are External Causes of Leaky Basements?

Your gutters may be a part of your roofing system, but they also play a significant role in your basement’s moisture levels. An inch of rainfall can produce about 4.7 gallons of water per square yard. Your gutters and downspouts are meant to move this water away from a house’s foundation and basement as it falls off the roof. However, clogged gutters and improperly designed downspouts will allow rainwater to pool at the base of your home, where it can seep into the basement. 

Improper landscape grading is another exterior issue. Grading is a way to utilize the land for a specific purpose, such as installing a hardscape for a walking path. This process also serves as a way to create drainage from a structure’s foundation. Improper landscape grading can cause rainwater to cascade toward a house instead of keeping it away. Ideally, a home should be at the highest point of the property so that the surrounding yard slopes downward and keeps water from collecting. 

How Can You Prevent a Leaky Basement?

There are several ways you can protect your basement from excessive moisture. If you notice any slopes in your yard that lead toward your home, you may need to contact a landscaping professional to regrade the yard. You should also keep your gutters clean and well-maintained to prevent clogs, and add extensions to your downspouts that lead them several feet away from your house. If you need assistance keeping your basement dry, contact a professional waterproofing company for additional solutions. 

Solve your leaky basement problems once and for all with Reliable Crack Injection in Norwood, OH. This basement waterproofing company offers reliable foundation and basement repair services throughout the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky areas, including a unique injection process that uses polyurethane epoxy foam to fill cracks and voids. Their repair experts work diligently to ensure all clients are 100% satisfied, which is why they back their work with a 20-year guarantee. To schedule a free estimate, call (513) 369-4366 or visit them online today.