Why do basements leak in Winter?
Basements can leak water throughout the year whether moisture present is from rain or snow.
During the winter months, basements radiate heat out into the surrounding soil, usually about 8 inches away from the foundation. This heat melts the frozen soil around the basement creating a pocket of moisture similar to a puddle. The water becomes trapped between the frozen soil and the basement walls during the winter time. The downward pull of gravity, known as hydrostatic pressure, is what forces the water into the basement creating a leak.
To further explain: hydrostatic pressure is what builds up around your basement’s foundation and pushes water seepage into your home’s foundation. As water builds up in the pocket of porous soil surrounding the exterior basement walls, gravity pulls the water downward forcing water seepage into the basement.This is why basements leak water during the winter months, even if there isn’t a heavy rainstorm or running water outside the foundation.
Most often the leaking water enters the basement where the floor and walls meet or a crack in the wall or mortar joints. This type of water leak is best fixed by relieving the hydrostatic pressure.
The same can happen with a big snowstorm. When the snow starts to melt, it forms a pool of water around the basement walls and leaks into the basement. Additionally, when ice and snow start to build up on the rooftop, it eventually melts and falls onto the ground, which happens to be right around your foundation. The ground becomes saturated and leaks into the basement.
When dealing with basement leaks, it’s always best to call in a professional. The most effective way to fix leaks caused by hydrostatic pressure is to relieve the pressure. There are a variety of solutions that maybe available to you. Let a professional basement waterproof company identify the problem and offer the best solution.
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