How Does Water Get Into Your Home?

Water creeping into your home can cause Carolina home and business owners to rip their hair out. Where does the water come from? How does it get into your crawlspace or basement? What problems can it cause? What can be done to prevent it? In this article, we take a look at water intrusion problems that are prevalent in our region, and how Nelon-Cole successfully helps homeowners prevent the numerous problems that can arise due to negligence.

How Groundwater Can Get Into Your Home and Cause Damage

Groundwater is an essential part of the natural water cycle, but when it finds its way into your home, it can cause serious and often costly damage. The intrusion of groundwater into a home is typically caused by a combination of factors including poor drainage, excessive rainfall, and even the design of the home’s foundation. Understanding how groundwater enters a home and the different foundation types can help homeowners mitigate the risks and prevent long-term damage. Groundwater is water that naturally exists beneath the earth's surface, filling the spaces between soil particles and rock formations. This water usually comes from rainfall that seeps into the ground and is stored in underground aquifers. In most cases, groundwater is harmless and stays where it belongs, beneath the surface. However, when there is an issue with the foundation or drainage system of a home, groundwater can begin to seep into the structure, resulting in significant damage.

mold problems often cannot be noticed until significant damage has occured

How Groundwater Affects Different Foundation Types

The type of foundation your home has can significantly impact how groundwater behaves around it, and Nelon-Cole is both qualified and experienced at waterproofing every foundation type. Different foundation types are designed to address various environmental conditions, but no foundation is completely immune to water damage. Let’s explore how groundwater interacts with some common foundation types.

Slab-on-Grade Foundations

Slab-on-grade foundations are common in areas where the ground freezes, as well as in warm climates where basements aren’t typically necessary. This type of foundation consists of a single concrete slab poured directly onto the ground. While slab foundations provide a solid base, they are particularly vulnerable to water damage. If the ground beneath the slab becomes saturated with groundwater, it can lead to soil movement and cracking. This is especially true in areas where the soil is expansive or clay-based, which can expand and contract as moisture levels fluctuate. The cracks in the slab can provide a direct path for groundwater to seep into the home.

Basement Foundations

Basements are designed to be built below the ground level, making them more prone to water infiltration from groundwater. Unlike slab-on-grade foundations, basement foundations typically have walls that extend deep into the soil. If the area around the foundation isn’t properly drained, or if there are cracks in the foundation walls, groundwater can seep into the basement. Basements often experience a higher risk of flooding during periods of heavy rain or melting snow because they are below the natural water table. Groundwater pressure can push against the basement walls and floors, leading to leaks, standing water, and potential damage to personal belongings and structural integrity.

Crawl Space Foundations

Crawl space foundations are often used in areas where the soil is less stable or where building a full basement would be impractical. Crawl spaces create a gap between the ground and the home’s floor, allowing for easier access to plumbing and electrical systems. However, these spaces can easily become a problem when groundwater begins to accumulate. If the soil surrounding the crawl space is not properly graded or if there are drainage issues, water can flow into the space, leading to mold, mildew, and wood rot. The wooden beams and supports used in many crawl spaces are particularly susceptible to water damage. Additionally, the increased humidity can create an ideal environment for pests like termites.

Pier and Beam Foundations

Pier and beam foundations elevate the home above the ground using vertical supports or piers. This type of foundation is often used in flood-prone areas or regions with unstable soils. While the elevation provides some protection against flooding, groundwater can still cause problems. When the surrounding soil becomes overly saturated, it can weaken the support piers, leading to shifting or settling of the home. Over time, the piers can become unstable, causing structural issues and possible damage to the foundation itself.

various foundation types each present special challenges for keeping water out

Common Causes of Groundwater Intrusion

The intrusion of groundwater into your home doesn’t happen by accident. There are a few key factors that can increase the likelihood of water finding its way into your living spaces.

1. Poor Drainage Systems: One of the most common causes of groundwater problems is a poorly designed or malfunctioning drainage system. Gutters and downspouts that are clogged or improperly directed can allow water to pool around the foundation. Additionally, landscaping that slopes toward the home can exacerbate water accumulation near the foundation.

2. Saturated Soil: In areas where heavy rainfall is frequent or during the spring thaw, the ground may become oversaturated. This increases the likelihood that groundwater will find its way into your home, especially if the soil around the foundation has poor drainage properties.

3. Cracks in the Foundation: Over time, foundations can develop cracks due to natural settling or soil movement. These cracks, whether in a slab, basement wall, or crawl space, provide an easy point of entry for groundwater. Even small cracks can lead to moisture infiltration, which can cause significant damage over time.

4. High Water Table: Homes located in areas with a high water table are more susceptible to groundwater issues. A high water table means that the level of groundwater is closer to the surface, increasing the chance of water entering the home during wet weather. Homes near lakes, rivers, or in low-lying areas are particularly vulnerable.

The Consequences of Groundwater Damage

When groundwater enters your home, the consequences can range from mild to severe. Early signs of water intrusion may include damp spots, musty odors, or visible water on floors. However, if left unchecked, the damage can become much more significant. One of the most concerning issues is mold growth. Mold thrives in damp, dark environments, and if groundwater infiltrates a basement or crawl space, mold can quickly spread. Mold is not only a health hazard but can also cause further deterioration to wood, drywall, and other materials within the home. In addition to mold, persistent water exposure can weaken the structural integrity of the home. Prolonged moisture exposure can cause wood rot, rusting of steel supports, and even foundation shifting. If groundwater is allowed to seep into a home for an extended period, it can significantly reduce the value of the property and make repairs costly and complex. Your award-winning Nelon-Cole team can answer many of your questions during our inspection process.

Nelon-Cole helps keep basement homes safe and water & mold free for your family

Preventing Groundwater Damage

Here is where your Nelon-Cole team should come into the picture in protecting your home from groundwater damage. The first step is ensuring proper drainage around your property. We can sometimes achieve this by some very simply landscaping around your home, or running downspouts further out into the yard. Installing a sump pump in basements and crawl spaces can also help manage water intrusion by actively pumping out excess water. For homes in high-risk areas, such as those near rivers or with a high water table, waterproofing the foundation may be necessary (and in may cases is highly recommended). This involves sealing cracks, installing barriers, and even applying waterproof coatings to prevent water from entering. Additionally, it’s a good idea to regularly inspect your foundation for any signs of cracks or shifting that might lead to water problems. All of this can be performed during routine home inspections by your Nelon-Cole technician as part of their regular process.

Caring for your home and ensuring generations of safe home ownership is what we do. Pest, moisture, water, mold, mildew - all can present dangers to both your home and your family. Trusting lesser qualified and experienced companies to do this job will likely result in extended repairs later, so make sure you make the right call the first time - we put our experience to work for YOU! Charlotte Mold and Moisture Control - Shelby NC Mold and Waterproofing Services - Gastonia Mold and Moisture Control- Asheville Mold and Moisture Control - Spartanburg Mold and Moisture Control - Hendersonville Mold and Moisture Control - Lincolnton Mold and Moisture Control