Hydrostatic Pressure Causes Wet Basements and Cracked Basement/Foundation Walls

Does your basement flood due to cracks? Do you notice a musty odor in your home? If you are encountering these issues, your home may be experiencing hydrostatic pressure. Hydrostatic pressure is a natural process that causes foundation failure over time. Basement walls may start to bow or lean, forming cracks throughout the home’s structure.

What is hydrostatic pressure? Hydro means ‘water’, and static means ‘fixed or stable’. Homes built on clay soil tend to have higher water levels because clay absorbs water. As water seeps into the soil, the water table rises. The ground is unable to absorb excess water, therefore it creates hydrostatic pressure against your foundation walls. Small cracks form throughout the basement walls and foundation walls, creating a pathway for water. Your basement may flood especially during heavy rains.

How does hydrostatic effect your home? Hydrostatic pressure, accompanied with snow melt and heavy rainfall, can intensify the pressure against basement walls. Over time, you may start to notice foundation issues, such as:

• Water seepage through cracks
• Bowing or leaning basement walls
• Foundation and wall cracks
• Crumbling, flaking and chipping foundations
• Sloped or uneven floors
• Sticking windows and doors

Hydrostatic Pressure Solutions for Wet Basements, Basement Walls and Foundation Walls

There are ways you can help prevent hydrostatic pressure from occurring in your basement. Hire our waterproofing experts to install ECP products and materials in your home. We use the latest products on the market to ensure quality service by our skilled professionals. Our waterproofing methods are designed to collect and divert water away from your home. We install the following products:

Interior Drainage Systems

• Less labor intensive
• Installed all year round in all types of weather conditions
• Prevents hydrostatic pressure by relieving water pressure from beneath the foundation
• Less disruption to exterior
• Collects floor and wall seepage
• Guards against outside issues such as tree roots growing into the drainage system

Exterior Drainage Systems

• Drains saturated soil and decreases water pressure against the foundation walls
• Minimal disruption inside of the basement

Sump Pumps

• Prevents water damage and flooding
• Reduces mold and mildew growth
• Minimizes the risk of fire due to wet electrical appliances such as heating systems, water heaters, and laundry machines

Sump Pits

• Water is removed from the pit to prevent overflow
• Collects water and other fluids

Our waterproofing solutions will give you long-lasting results so you won’t have a wet basement. Contact Reliable Waterproofing today! We can prevent pressure build up against your basement and foundation walls in Virginia.