Water in crawl space or basement, what happens next
Posted by Malot Gina on November 13th, 2017
It is important to understand that water in crawlspace is different from water problems in basement. Hence getting crawlspace fixed takes a different path from having interior basement waterproofing done. However, the magnitude of the problem becomes the same, if water or moisture is allowed to find a space in either location. And, the people to contact in case you face such a situation are also the same - basement or crawl space waterproofing contractors. So, here is what you can do when water makes its way through inside your crawl space or basement.
Can you sit on it for some time?
The answer is a big ‘No’. Within a short span water or moisture makes way for a lot of complications. Cracks may form in the walls and floor of your basement. Molds begin to find a safe haven in joists and hard surfaces in both crawl spaces and basements. It may become difficult to get rid of mold and mildew once they are left untreated for a long time. Structural damage to the foundation, floor and joints in basements and crawl spaces is what you are looking at if you do not take steps to mitigate the issue.
Water in crawl space and basement – how does it happen?
Water may find its way inside your crawl space due to internal or external factors. It may be a result of leaking drains or pipes. Heavy rainfall may also cause outside water to find its way inside the crawl space. When the level of soil water rises, it becomes difficult to dry off water naturally and it starts accumulating. In your basement water may start leaking in through cracks and gaps in walls and floors. Bulging walls, peeling paints and a musty smell are some signs that there is water leakage in the basement. Underground water level may rise and start creating pressure on the soil which causes water leakage inside the basement.
How do you fix this issue?
Interior basement waterproofing and drying up your crawl space and basement is how you mitigate this issue. However, it is wise to let the professionals step in because they will know exactly how to proceed on this. In crawl spaces, the water needs to be pumped out first. If required, a sump pump needs to be installed to take care of future water issues. Crawl space has to be cleaned by removing the debris, replacing the wet insulation, getting rid of mold and rodent infestation, creating a thick vapor barrier and conditioning the crawl space air. Basements are to be waterproofed in quite a similar manner. The repair zone needs to be identified and the concrete has to be removed, new drain tile installed, walls perforated and polymer board system installed in the walls. A dehumidifier can help in getting rid of moisture.
Mitigating water in crawl space and interior basement waterproofing can be done expertly by professional basement repair contractors. It needs your immediate attention. So, get help without further delay and avoid any permanent damage to your building structure.
Resource Box: If there is water in crawl space or basement then you need to call a contractor for crawl space and interior basement waterproofing solutions.