The most common cause of basement leaks is hydrostatic pressure — when water in the soil around your foundation builds up and forces its way through cracks, joints, or porous concrete. Poor drainage, clogged gutters, and grading issues often make the problem worse.
How Hydrostatic Pressure Causes Leaks
When heavy rain or snowmelt saturates the soil, the water has nowhere to go. Consequently, it presses against your basement walls and floor. Over time, this pressure:
- Forces water through even the smallest cracks
- Worsens foundation damage
- Leads to mold, mildew, and musty odors
In addition to hydrostatic pressure, several factors can contribute to basement water problems:
Poor Exterior Drainage
Downspouts that dump water too close to the foundation
Improper grading that slopes toward your home
Clogged or Missing Gutters
Water pours directly onto foundation walls, increasing the risk of leaks
Foundation Cracks & Gaps
Openings in mortar joints, around windows, or through settling cracks
Failed or Missing Waterproofing Systems
No French drains, sump pumps, or waterproof coatings in place
How to Stop Basement Leaks
To protect your home, it’s essential to stop water at its source and control any water that does get in:
Install interior or exterior French drains to redirect water
Add a sump pump to actively remove groundwater
Seal cracks with permanent repair systems
Improve exterior grading and drainage so water flows away from your home
By taking these steps, you can prevent leaks, protect your foundation, and maintain a healthy basement environment.
Serving NJ, DE, and PA for Over 4 Generations
We have been solving basement leak problems for decades. Moreover, we back our work with a lifetime warranty on the life of your structure. Therefore, you can have peace of mind knowing your basement is protected for years to come.
Don’t wait for the next heavy rain to flood your basement. Instead, call today for a free estimate and take 17% off waterproofing and leak repair.
To get started quickly, simply fill out the form below to receive your fast, FREE estimate. Once submitted, our team will contact you to assess your basement and recommend a permanent solution.
By acting now, you can protect your home, prevent costly damage, and enjoy peace of mind.
In addition, we don’t do hard sells. Why? Because we don’t need to. As a result of our hard work and commitment to serving the community we have built a wonderful community.
If you need help, call 800-700-9171
