Seattle is a beautiful city located in one of the most beautiful regions of the United States. The Puget Sound location of Seattle and its breathtaking mountain views make it a city that almost everyone would wish to call home. But things sometimes become less enjoyable due to the weather. In fact, it rains 50 percent of the time in the city. So, how do you keep your basement dry during Seattle’s rainy season? Continue reading to get some handy tips from Basement Expert.
Many of our clients during the inspections ask if waterproofing coats or sealants will protect their house or solve the dampness in their basement. Let’s take a look at what science says about the source of the problem. In most cases, basement flooding occurs due to increased hydrostatic pressure caused by rising groundwater levels. Since basements are built below the ground, they are subject to hydrostatic pressure. That means groundwater is constantly trying to find an easier way to flow. Usually, it finds its way through cracks and joints or even solid concrete. Due to this reason, sealants, coatings, or hydraulic cements are only a temporary fix for a leaking basement. Still, each circumstance is different. It could take months or days for groundwater to find a new way.
If your basement is wet, it is not always due to hydrostatic pressure. Sometimes the issue can be simpler. It is a good idea to check downspouts, doors, and windows.
Check your downspouts
When water falls on your roof and enters your gutters, it flows into your downspout. If your downspout is functioning properly, it should be directing water away from your house as it strikes the ground. Downspouts, unfortunately, frequently fail, so if your house is older, you should be especially vigilant for any concrete downspouts or concrete pipes that have malfunctioned in some way (they might be clogged, cracked, collapsed, etc.). If any of these things happen, water will eventually be pushed toward your house and begin to enter.
Check your windows
Poorly sealed windows are another weakness that can exist in a basement. It is indeed simple for water to collect around windows and splash up against them.
Check your doors
Make sure your door drain is free of unwanted debris, such as leaves.
If dampness is noticed in the basement (read more about the signs of water damage), Immediately put in a dehumidifier to prevent mold growth since it grows pretty quickly (in about 24–48 hours, according to the EPA).
Look for a permanent solution
Due to hydrostatic pressure, the water can never be blocked and can only be redirected. So, to fix this problem, consider redirecting the water away from your house reducing the hydrostatic pressure. Learn about ways to reduce hydrostatic pressure and fix wet basement problems permanently.
