Hydrostatic pressure is one of the biggest concerns for homeowners. Most water problems, such as foundation cracks, water seepage, and water stains, can be linked to hydrostatic pressure. If not addressed, the problems caused by hydrostatic pressure can worsen and lead to permanent structural damage. It’s important for homeowners to recognize signs of hydrostatic pressure and implement reliable solutions to solve the issue.
What is Hydrostatic Pressure?
Hydrostatic pressure is the constant force of water pressure exerted on your foundation or basement walls. When water accumulates in the soil around your home, the soil expands and pushes against anything it comes in contact with, such as your basement walls. This pressure leads to problems like wall bowing, foundation settlement, and water seepage.
What Causes Hydrostatic Pressure?
Hydrostatic pressure is mainly caused by the soil around your home and the weather. When water cannot drain properly due to clay content in the soil or heavy rainfall, it builds up in the soil around your home. If your home is not properly waterproofed, that can make things worse for your foundation or basement.
Signs of Hydrostatic Pressure
If you notice the following signs in your home, it’s time to take action to protect your basement or foundation.
Cracking and Bowing Walls
Cracking and bowing in your basement walls are among the most prominent signs of hydrostatic pressure. Sometimes, cracks and bowing are very minor and might not seem serious. Therefore, you should schedule a professional inspection and take appropriate action.
Water in Your Basement
Standing or pooling water in your basement means your basement does not have an appropriate drainage system to drain water away. Hydrostatic pressure can force water in through cracks, gaps, or the cove joint between your walls and floor.
Collapsing Walls
Walls collapse when the hydrostatic pressure is too great for the structure to handle. However, if you implement reliable solutions and waterproof your basement early on, you can prevent structural damage.
Solution for Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure is not uncommon. You can resolve it with proper solutions and waterproofing.
1. Improve Exterior Drainage and Grading
Draining water away from your foundation can prevent hydrostatic pressure buildup. Therefore, proper exterior drainage is required to ensure water doesn’t pool in your home, even when it rains. Besides drainage solutions, your property should slope away from your home to prevent it from pooling around your foundation.
2. Install a Sump Pump System
A sump pump is one of the most important components of the basement waterproofing process. It works proactively to collect water in the sump pit during flooding and rainfall. The water is collected in one spot and then diverted out of your home through a drainage system. A sump pump, complemented by a drainage system, is an ideal solution for basement flooding.
3. Install Drain Tile
A drain tile system involves perforated pipes laid along the exterior or interior of the foundation. Drain tiles effectively channel water away from your home during rainfall, flooding, or plumbing leaks. A drain tile system combined with a sump pump can effectively prevent flooding and lower the hydrostatic pressure around your home.
4. Seal Cracks
Sealing cracks is usually one of the primary solutions to stop leaks and prevent further damage. However, cracks are often a result of an underlying problem. Carbon fiber straps can be used to mend and seal the cracks, but the underlying problem should also be addressed for permanent structural stability.
5. Install a Vapor Barrier
A vapor barrier surrounds your crawl space or basement and prevents moisture from entering the structure. Typically made of plastic or foil, a vapor barrier is installed on the walls and floors, covering every inch of your basement or crawl space and keeping it dry.
6. Invest in Professional Waterproofing
Every foundation is prone to water damage. If you haven’t invested in waterproofing yet, don’t wait until the damage is done. Be proactive and invest in professional waterproofing to safeguard your home.
Waterproof Your Home Today
Hydrostatic pressure is a natural cause of damage, but it can easily be addressed to protect your home. Proper grading, drainage systems, sump pump installation, and comprehensive basement waterproofing can equip your basement or crawl space to stand strong against hydrostatic pressure and prevent water seepage. For a free inspection and an accurate waterproofing estimate, call the experts at First Choice Waterproofing. With over 30 years of experience, we are here to solve your foundation problems and waterproof your home.
