Why Are There Cracks In The Basement Floor
With how common it is to find cracks in the basement floor, it is no wonder why many homeowners don’t even notice them until water begins seeping through.
Unfortunately, this water seepage is inevitable because the same forces that end up causing the cracks in the floor are also responsible for the water. While this usually does not result in a huge amount of water, it can be an indicator of a much bigger seepage problem.
So Why Do Cracks In The Basement Floor Seep Water?
It all lies with the water table. The ‘water table’ refers to the normal level of ground water in the soil around the particular area. What determines that level is a combination soil composition, topography, and the proximity to large bodies of water.
When there are heavy rains or snow, that water ends up being absorbed into the soil which causes the water table to rise temporarily. This level increase results in hydrostatic pressure within the soil that pushes up against anything that happens to be resting on the soil including the basement floor.
This excess pressure will cause the thin layer of concrete to begin cracking and once the cracks begin to form, water will be forced through them onto the basement floor. Additionally, the hydrostatic pressure may also force the water through a cove joint which could cause a large amount of water to enter the basement.
As mentioned previously, these cracks may only result in minor water seepage, but ignoring it can cause major damage later on.
Get The Professional Help You Need!
When you spot cracks in the floor, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals at AAAction Waterproofing. We understand the damage that a small crack could cause and we are dedicated to fixing and preventing your wet basement issues in a timely and effective manner. Contact us today to find out more about our waterproofing options!