A flooded basement is among the last things you want to encounter in your home. This issue can involve costly repairs and inconvenience to your family. Keep in mind that your basement is not only at risk of leaking during heavy storms but also in winter.
Find out why some basement leaks in the colder months from a local rain gutter guard installer.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure refers to the downward pull of gravity and it is a common cause of basement leaking. When heat from your basement defrosts the frozen soil and snow, moisture settles and gets trapped between the ground and basement walls. That trapped moisture is pushed down by hydrostatic pressure. As the hydrostatic pressure increase, it can cause moisture to penetrate any cracks or holes in the foundation. The pressure can build up more and create new gaps and cracks where moisture can enter.
Heat From the Basement
The heat from your basement is significantly warmer than the outside temperatures. Since the ground outdoors is cold and frozen and the temperature indoors is warm, your basement will radiate heat. When the snow melts, moisture will accumulate, which can cause leaks. Further damage will occur if the moisture builds up and has nowhere to go.
Eaves, Troughs, or Downspouts Are Too Close to Your Home
Eaves, troughs and downspouts are made to divert water away from your home. If they are installed too close to your home or designed poorly, they won’t be able to direct water at a safe distance. The further the water is to your foundation, the less likely your basement will leak.
Keeping your gutters in good shape is also essential in preventing basement leaks. At Gutter Helmet® of Northern Minnesota, we offer quality rain gutter guard installation services, designed to prevent clogs in your gutters. Call us at (800) 824-3772 or fill out our contact form to get a free estimate. We serve clients in Guard Culver, Minnesota.
