Fix your basement waterproofing and leaks – right now

Do you have water coming into your basement where the floor meets the wall? Or maybe a drip from the ceiling? Basement leaks can originate from a variety of sources.

One common culprit is poor waterproofing during the construction of your home. If the foundation walls and floor weren’t adequately sealed, water can find its way in through cracks and gaps. Additionally, heavy rainfall or melting snow can saturate the soil around your foundation, leading to hydrostatic pressure. This pressure can force water through even the tiniest openings, causing leaks. Let’s face it, it rains often on Vancouver Island. Finding a plumber in Nanaimo (like John G Plumbing) will help you fix the problem and prevent it from happening again.

So, what can you do about it?

Preventing basement leaks starts with proper waterproofing. Here are a few tips to keep the water out:

1. Seal the cracks: Inspect your foundation walls and floors for any cracks or gaps. Fill them with hydraulic cement or an appropriate sealant to prevent water from seeping through.
2. Gutters and downspouts: Make sure your gutters and downspouts are clean and free from debris. They should direct water away from your foundation, not towards it. Consider installing extensions to carry the water even farther from the house.
3. Grading: Check the grading around your home. The ground should slope away from the foundation, allowing water to naturally flow away instead of pooling against the walls.
4. French drains: Installing a French drain system around the perimeter of your foundation can help divert water away from your basement. This system consists of a trench filled with gravel and a perforated pipe that collects and carries the water away. A perimeter drain system is an excellent way to prevent flooding in our west coast environment. 
5. Sump pump: A sump pump can be a lifesaver when it comes to keeping your basement dry. It’s a device that automatically removes water from the sump pit as it accumulates. Consider installing a battery backup for the pump to ensure it keeps working during power outages.

Now, let’s say you’ve discovered a leak in your basement despite your best efforts. Don’t panic! 

For more significant leaks or if you’re unsure about the extent of the problem, it’s best to call the professionals at John G Plumbing. We have the expertise and tools to identify and fix the issue correctly. Even if you feel like it’s a small job, we will come out and help you out!

Here’s what you can do:

1. Identify the source: Determine where the water is coming from. It could be a crack in the wall, a faulty pipe, or a problem with your drainage system. Understanding the source will help you describe the problem to your plumber.
2. Temporarily stop the leak: If you can, try to temporarily stop the leak by applying waterproofing materials like epoxy or hydraulic cement to the area. This will buy you some time until the plumber arrives. Ask them on the phone if this is a good idea for the situation, or if they prefer you to hold tight until they arrive.
3. Address the underlying problem: Once the leak has been temporarily stopped, it’s essential to address the underlying cause. Fixing the source of the leak will prevent future water intrusion and save you from recurring problems. At John G Plumbing, we will fix the problem and advise you on what steps should be taken so it does not happen again.

Remember, prevention is always better than dealing with leaks after they occur. By taking proactive measures and ensuring proper waterproofing, you can protect your basement and keep it dry.