Basements are often an overlooked part of the home, and they are frequently prone to serious issues. Leakage in a basement can lead to the development of mold and mildew, which can pose a serious health risk to anyone living in the home. When left untreated, a wet basement can result in property damage and foundation issues, compromising the structural integrity of your home.
Causes of Basement Leakage
Multiple factors can contribute to basement leakage – including grading, gutters, and the stability of the foundation.
- Improper grading – If grading is planned poorly, water can lead back to the foundation of a home, causing leakage to occur over time.
- Lack of proper gutters – A home’s gutter system is responsible for guiding water away from the home. Without proper gutters, water may be led toward the home, causing saturation.
- Improper landscape drainage – Depending on a home’s landscape design, improper drainage can result in water flowing towards a home.
- Cracked foundation – The most common cause of basement leakage is a cracked foundation, which can result from soil shifting or pushing against the foundation.
Areas Affected by Basement Cracks
When checking for basement cracks, homeowners need to explore the following areas for signs of leakage and damage:
- Interior walls
- Areas behind finishing or drywall
- Cement floors
Solutions for Basement Cracks and Leaks
Cracks and leaks in a basement respond well to relatively simple repairs. At Intech Anchoring Systems, we offer the following solutions for basement cracks and leaks:
- Epoxy and urethane injection systems – These cost-effective injections can repair a crack while curing on a damp surface. This solution is effective and strong, allowing for expansion and contraction.
- Carbon fiber – This is another simple repair, but it is even stronger than epoxy injections. Carbon fiber prevents further deterioration and eliminates moisture in the area.
Serious Foundation Issues
Basement cracks or leakage can be fixed with relatively simple techniques. However, the presence of cracks or dampness can indicate serious foundation issues, which can become a safety risk for those in the home. The presence of any of the following conditions needs to be evaluated by a professional to repair the root cause of the problem:
- Sinking foundations
- Uneven floors
- Bowing walls
- Baseboard separation
- Hard to open doors and windows
Basement Repair Systems
If any of the above indicators exist, it’s important to contact a professional right away to discuss your options. Repairing foundation issues immediately can prevent further damage from occurring. There are two main basement repair systems used to fix serious foundation issues:
- Piers – The installation of piers helps transfer weight from areas of weak soil to steel piers. Steel piers and helical piers are two of the most common pier supports used in basement repair.
- Tiebacks – Installed inside the basement, tiebacks help strengthen walls, particularly bowing walls. This solution helps prevent further damage caused by changing soil conditions around the home.
Why Chose Intech Anchoring Systems
For over two decades, Intech Anchoring Systems has proudly provided homeowners with basement repair systems designed to keep basements dry. We offer a variety of options to fit your needs and your budget. Call us today at 844-244-7319.