Foundation cracks

Water entering through foundation cracks is one of the most common sources of water for basements and crawlspaces. Settling or shrinking is the most likely culprit of most foundation cracks.

Air space under slabs

Concrete slabs forming your garage floor, patios, or other structures are poured after the ground has been sifted and shifted during the construction process. This can cause air pockets beneath the slab. Water finds these air pockets and creates underground streams of water that eventually find their way to your basement or crawlspace.

Form Ties

Metal form ties are used when concrete is poured. Over time these ties can rust and create holes in the concrete, leaving space for water to collect. A white chalky residue on the outside of a concrete wall, called efflorescence, is evidence of water collecting and evaporating, leaving behind salt and other water-soluble materials.

Downspouts

Downspouts are critical in keeping rainwater away from your home’s foundation. Poor-fitting or damaged downspouts can allow water to pool around your foundation and leak into basements and crawlspaces.

Cold poured joint

When new concrete is poured against existing concrete, this is called a cold pour. Cold poor concrete joints are weaker than other joints and more susceptible to water leakage.

Footing joint

The footing joint is another common area for water to enter basements and crawlspaces. This is where the wall, floor, and footing come together, though formed separately. Expansion and contraction between these three can leave spaces for water to enter.

Windows

Weak spots around windows create an easy opportunity for water to enter. Weak spots may come from improperly installed or deteriorating windows.

Sill plate

Sill plates form the bottom of the wall structures for your home. Wall studs are attached to the sill plate and are anchored to the home’s foundation. If the grade is above the level of the sill plate, water can collect around your foundation walls.

Hydrostatic pressure

Heavy rains or rising water can saturate the ground and lead to hydrostatic pressure, or water pressure, which pushes water through your basement walls and floor.

Porous Concrete

Concrete is generally water-resistant when mixed correctly and consistently. Concrete that was not properly mixed can have porous spots that are most susceptible to water.