Is Your Yard Causing Problems for Your Basement?

If your basement is leaking, you might not be thinking about how that relates to the rest of your house. It can be helpful, though, to consider your home as a system, in which all the various parts work together. If something’s wrong with your basement, it’s going to impact your home. Similarly, problems with the rest of the property can cause issues for your basement. Your yard, in particular, can cause problems that lead to flooding in your basement.

• Your property may be graded improperly. Your house should sit on a high point in your property, with the ground sloping down so that water drains away from the foundation. This slope doesn’t have to be dramatic- 6 inches will do- but if the ground slopes toward your house you’re going to end up with a flooded basement. In fact, water building up around your foundation can lead to structural issues as well. Sometimes foundations are put incorrectly, but as time passes and the house settles, the soil will shift and a problem will arise with the grading.
• Your gutters and downspouts may be a problem. Downspouts are supposed to carry water away from the house, but if they’re installed incorrectly, they may do just the opposite, dumping water too close to the foundation. What’s more, clogged gutters can lead to rainwater problems, including foundation issues, rotting wood, and a leaking roof. Gutters should be cleaned at least twice a year, but some inspectors recommend cleaning them every three months.
• You may be mulching wrong. When mulch is up against the foundation, it traps moisture that can cause your home’s siding to rot and deteriorate. This makes your home more susceptible to moisture and water damage in the basement. To prevent this from happening, keep mulch at least 4 to 6 inches away from the foundation. Another smart landscaping tip for your moisture problems is to use grass and native plants, which can help with soil erosion and prevent water from flowing into your home.
• Your window wells may be clogged. Over time, window wells can collect leaves, dirt, and debris. Without proper maintenance, they can become clogged and lose their ability to drain away water. Water in your window wells can cause rot and rust, which can lead to leaks that allow water into your basement.

When it’s time to waterproof your basement, it’s time to call Reliable Basement Services. A family-owned and operated company, Reliable Basement Services has served the greater Chicagoland area for more than ten years. We offer a full spectrum of basement services, charging reasonable rates for work that includes crack repairs, sump pump systems, basement waterproofing, basement windows, and floor repair. Our consistently high standards have made us an award-winning Chicago basement waterproofing contractor and earned us thousands of satisfied customers all over Chicago. For more information, call (630) 318-4888 or visit our website for a free quote.