In This Article

Understanding and Identifying the Source of Water Seepage

Water seepage and leaks are similar, but there are some important differences to note.

Seepage is classified as the slow movement of water through small openings or through porous materials, whereas leaks are identified as water escaping from a system (typically plumbing).

In basements, it’s not uncommon to come across water seepage. Potential causes include:

Expansive soil
Poor drainage around your home
Cracks in the foundation, walls, or floor

Water seepage is most prevalent after heavy rainfall or floods because it can overwhelm your home’s drainage system. This is typically when water begins to seep in.

Solutions to Prevent Water Seepage

Exterior Solutions

When it comes to the outside of your home, there are many simple and effective methods you can use to avoid water seepage:

Install a French drain or other water management system to direct water away from the basement.
Use a perforated pipe to carry water down the slope and away from the house.
Apply waterproofing products to the outside of the basement walls to prevent water from entering.
Ensure proper grading around the home to direct surface water away from the house.

Interior Solutions

As far as the interior goes, solutions require more expertise. At Erie Home, we offer a range of options to help you prevent and treat water seepage. We can:

Install a sump pump and backup system to remove excess water from the basement.
Seal gaps or cracks in the basement walls and floor.
Install an interior drainage system, such as a drain tile, to direct water away from the basement.
Implement encapsulation to waterproof your basement or crawl space.

Maintenance and Upkeep

Once the hard work is done, it’s still important to keep up with maintenance. Regularly inspect the basement for signs of water seepage or damage, clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow, and check in on your sump pump every once in a while to make sure it is functioning properly.

If you experience any issues with your system, get in touch with the experts at Erie Home for advice or repairs when necessary.

Additional Tips and Considerations

For anyone looking to take their protection up a level, consider installing a backup power source for the sump pump to avoid issues during a power outage.

If you have a yard that slopes toward your home, you’ll likely experience some level of water seepage unless you work with professionals to perform basement waterproofing and foundation repair.

Professional Help from Erie Home

If you’re experiencing issues with water seepage or leakage, reach out to Erie Home for expert advice. We are dedicated to helping you protect your home from mold, mildew, and other forms of water damage. With our expert services, you will be on your way to a safer space in no time.

Schedule your consultation today to learn more about how Erie Home can help you.