5 Most Common Causes of Basement Water Leaks and How to Fix Them

Most homeowners are probably no stranger to basement water leaks, and it is inevitable if you don’t put the proper preventative measures in place. Whether from the ceiling, floor or walls water damage from leaking pipes can ruin your belongings and leave you stuck with a hefty bill if it isn’t caught in time. If your leak doesn’t come from a broken pipe, here are five of the most common causes of water leaks and how to get a basement water leak repaired.

1. Plumbing Issues

One of the most common causes of water leaks is plumbing issues. This can include everything from a cracked pipe to a clogged drain. If you suspect your basement leak is due to a plumbing issue, it’s essential to call a professional immediately.

 In the meantime, here are tips to help you fix the problem:

  •  Run hot water down both sides of the pipe.
  • Use a plunger and pour hot soapy water down sink drains.
  • Apply mineral oil to joints and connections.
  • Clean filters in the furnace and air conditioner regularly.
  • Repair or replace faucets.

2. Foundation or Floor Drain Issues

Basement water leaks can arise when there is an issue with your foundation or floor drain. If the drain is blocked or not functioning correctly, water can build up and seep through cracks in your foundation. You’ll need to clear the blockage and ensure the drain is working properly to fix this. Some older drains may need a  simple gutter fix. 

In other cases, you may need to repair cracks in your foundation that let the water leak through. Consult a professional basement water leak repair service for more help on how to address these issues.

3. Crawl Space or Concrete Foundation Issues

Another cause of basement water leaks is when the crawl space or concrete foundation has issues. This can be due to several things, such as poor drainage, cracks in the foundation or even just groundwater seeping in. 

Whatever the cause, it’s crucial to repair a water leak as soon as possible to avoid further damage. There are three ways to fix these problems: 

  • Install a french drain and slope around the house.
  • Drill weep holes into the bottom of your home and fill them with silicone sealant. 
  • Raise your home with posts and pier blocks.

4. Moisture From Outside Sources

Basement water leaks occur when there is moisture from outside sources. This can be due to faulty gutters or downspouts that allow water to seep into the foundation or due to cracks in the foundation. Either way, this type of leak is often easy to fix by ensuring your gutters are in good working order and sealing any cracks in your foundation. 

5. Non-Existent Drain Lines

One common cause of basement water leaks is non-existent drain lines. This happens when the pipes that carry water away from your home are missing or not installed correctly. Without these lines, moisture can build up and seep into your basement, as a result, this can cause  leaks. Therefore, it’s essential to check your house for this problem if you’ve noticed any signs of a leak in your basement.

If you’re finding signs of mold on your walls or floor, wet carpeting in certain areas, spots on the ceiling near the window and unexplained moisture on your insulation panels, then you may have a problem with non-existent drain lines.

Basement Water Leak Repair 

Plano Plumbing & Leak Detection is a plumbing company that specializes in home repairs. We serve all areas of Dallas County, including Plano, Frisco, McKinney, Allen, Carrollton and more. Our skilled technicians will provide you with top-quality service at competitive prices, all while treating your property as if it were their own. Contact us to get a service booking today!

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