The majority of homeowners experience a basement water leak at some point and time. The causes of a basement water leak could be as minor as driving rain during a storm to something major as structural problems. While extremely inconvenient, there are do-it-yourself industrial cleaning solutions that can help clean up minor problems.

Some things to look at when faced with a basement water leak are cracks or holes in the cement foundation, high underground water levels, or drainage problems. Depending on the cause, waterproof sealers, such as a sealing masonry, could be used to repair cracks and prevent a basement water leak. If the basement water leak cause stems from high water levels or drainage issues, installing a sump pump and drains should be considered.

The reasons why a basement water leak occurs vary. It could go as far back as when your house was built. Over time, cracks in the foundation, basement wall or basement floor might begin occurring. Or the home might be in a location that lends itself to improper drainage. Consult with a professional to identify and solve major problems that can cause a basement water leak.

With a minor basement water leak, it’s important to act quickly. If left unresolved, a simple basement water leak could turn more costly. If the water problem persists, mold and mildew will begin forming in your basement. Then, you’ll be faced with the additional problems of addressing these issues. So a basement water leak, when fixed early, can prevent other problem from occurring.

The foundations and ground area are the first areas to look at when dealing with a basement water leak. If nothing shows up, turn your head upwards and look at the gutters. If not properly situated to flow water away from the house, gutters could lead to water gathering on the ground near basement walls. A basement water leak could also be the result of erosion around the foundation caused by clogged gutters.

Preventive steps can be taken to avoid a basement water leak. If a severe rain storm or hurricane is pending, there are products that can be used to prevent permanent water damage. One inexpensive solution is a water absorbent sock that can be placed around basement windows and doors. The Hurricane Sock, sold at the Cleanup Stuff website at www.cleanupstuff.com has been beneficial to Florida homeowners by preventing a basement water leak during a hurricane. Each sock can absorb up to one gallon of water and it can be air dried and reused multiple times.

After resolving a basement water leak problem, a damp feeling or musty spell could linger. Water absorbent materials around the basement walls, windows and doors can prevent this. Since water heaters, washing machines and other items in your basement can leak, place absorbent protection around them as well. Applying a sealant to basement walls and floors is an effective way to stop moisture from building up.

Your home is likely the biggest investment that you will make in your lifetime. So it’s important to take preventive steps to keep it well maintained. When it comes to a basement water leak, fixing cracks and using absorbent materials near windows and doors can put an end to leaky problems.