If a leaky basement is not the result of bad plumbing, it’s usually due to cracks in the surrounding foundation. This can be caused by several issues surrounding or inside the property. Getting to the root of this damage will allow you to make the appropriate repairs and prevent any future dampness or flooding. 

Why Do I Have a Leaky Basement?

1. Surface Tension

It’s common for concrete foundations to develop vertical cracks soon after the installation. These fractures occur when the surface moisture evaporates faster than it can be replaced by rising water in the soil. This causes the exterior structure to shrink more than the interior and the tensile strength of the material to be surpassed. Fortunately, this foundation crack repair is relatively easy. A sealant can be applied to permanently prevent water from seeping in again.  

2. Settling Foundation

When the ground changes underneath the foundation footings unevenly, it can create tension issues similar to those described above. In this case, it doesn’t happen in a straight line, which results in one or more diagonal cracks in the foundation. Also, because the settling occurs in different areas, the fissure will most likely be wider on one end. Usually, this is a result of the house being built on a hill, changes in soil conditions due to excessive rain or lack thereof, or not having gutter systems installed properly. This type of leaky basement damage is also not that difficult to repair, but will require an expert experienced in structural foundation repairs. 

3. Backfill Issues

Usually, the basement foundation is surrounded by backfilling. If it was overly compressed or did not have adequate drainage, any excessive pressure — such as excessive rainfall — against the wall can cause it to bow inward and cause horizontal cracks. If you notice this type of foundation damage, call a basement crack repair company immediately as a bowing foundation can lead to the entire structure failing and collapsing. 

If you’ve recently developed a leaky basement, contact the specialists at Reliable Crack Injection for affordable waterproofing solutions. For a decade, this company has provided guaranteed repairs for basement cracks throughout Cincinnati, OH, and Northern, KY. Owner Randy Bientz personally oversees, plans, and performs all work to ensure it gets done right and that you are 100 percent satisfied. Call him today at (513) 368-4366 to receive a free estimate. You can also visit the website to learn more about their services.