It's not uncommon to see basement leaks in the springtime.
Snow melts, and in the Midwest we typically see higher amounts of precipitation in the spring.
Why Does My Basement Leak in the Spring?
There could be a few reasons why your basement leaks in the spring. Let's break them down.
Reason #1: Water Tables Rise
When the snow melts, it puts an increased pressure on the soil surrounding your home, especially if you have a high water table.
This is typical for homes that are near a lake, river, or pond.
Being that we are based in Minnesota, this accounts for many homes.
When the water tables finally reach a point where it cannot be contained in the ground, it is forced upwards at your foundation and into your basement. This is known as hydrostatic pressure.
Solution for High Water Tables
The typical solution we suggest for these cases is a drain tile system. We offer a few different options, and which one is best depends on where the water is coming in (walls vs. floor) and how much water is coming in.
Reason #2: Heavy Rains in the Spring
Similar to high water tables, heavy rains can cause water to enter your basement in the spring.
For this scenario, there could be a few factors at play.
The heavy rains could lead to rising water tables, but your home could leak water even if there isn't a high water table near.
For example, you may have a yard slope issue that is causing basement flooding. When the rain hits the ground, an improperly graded yard will carry water towards your house rather than away from it.
There could also be an issue with your gutters and downspouts causing water to enter.
Solution for Heavy Rains in the Spring
The solution here could be an assortment of things: regrade the yard, fix clogged gutters, or even one of our many waterproofing solutions. It may need to be checked by a pro to find the cause of your specific basement issues.
Reason #3: Foundation Cracks
If your foundation has cracks in it, this could be a cause for water entering the basement in the spring as well.
Solution for Foundation Cracks
The cracks may need to be sealed, and if damage has been done to the foundation itself, there may need to be some foundation repair done.
Reason #4: Poorly Installed Window Wells
When a window well is installed below ground level and the wells are not sealed and/or covered properly, water can enter the basement.
This is more common in the springtime when heavy rains fall.
Solution for Poorly Installed Window Wells
We recommend you have professionally installed egress windows. This will keep water out, and it's even a win-win because it increases the value of your home.
Reason #5: Clogged Drain Tiles
The drain tile (French drain) system should be installed in a way that prevents clogging. However, sometimes an improper installation can lead to rocks and sediment getting into the piping, which leads to backups and in return pools of water on the floor.
We've seen lots of scenarios where this is the case, which is why we recommend you vet your basement waterproofing company before hiring them.
Solution for Clogged Drain Tile
In the case of a clogged drain tile causing basement leakage in the springtime, we recommend to have the drain tile system reinstalled. Properly this time.
Reason #6: Broken Sump Pump
The sump pump is a vital part of the waterproofing system. Sometimes sump pumps can go bad or just stop working. This can happen when they are very busy in the spring melting season.
Solution for a Broken Sump Pump
If this is the case for you, a new sump pump may be in order.
