Solving water issues in the basement

One of the big issues I deal with here at Creative Contracting is water in basements. I am always asked why it is so wet or where does it come from. There are multiple reasons our basements are damp or wet.

I will share what happened at my own home – we have had water issues from the time we moved in, we tried everything, sealing the walls, cleaning out the perimeter trench, caulking, patching the list goes on and on. I always knew what I told my clients “get the water away from the house” but I kept ignoring my best advice to clients. Well last year we finely had to replace our 25 year old roof (it should have been replaced 5 years earlier – the shoemaker kids). I wanted to add some character so I extended the roof on 2 of the gables to create some overhang like the older homes. This resulted in new capping, trims, soffits and gutters. We decided that the gutters aesthetically could be a little bigger (K-5 is the residential standard we went with K-6), with the added benefit of being able to handle more water. Well we put new gutters on and got the downspouts away from the house and low and behold – our basements has dried up. Save yourself time and frustration:

1. Most of the homes we work on in this area of the country have gutters. Gutters are a critical element in the overall roof "health," performance, and durability. We recommend troubleshooting the gutters, downspouts, and splash blocks at least at the start of the summer (when most of the spring junk has fallen of the trees) and again in the early winter (when most of the leaves are of the trees).

2. The critical chore is clearing the gutters of debris. From leaves and twigs to rocks and sludge, debris not only clogs the system but can also cause damage or loosen gutter supports. At the same time, identify and repair any gaps in the gutters or downspouts and make sure their supports hold these components tight to the structure.

3. Clearing debris and repairing gaps will ensure that water and light debris are carried to the downspouts and completely flushed out. To make sure that's happening, hose down and flush the inside of the gutters once they're clean, gap-free, and properly supported. Clearing the gutters can be hazardous to the owner and the roof. Consider hiring a professional. Whenever possible, use a ladder (safely!) to clean out the gutters instead of walking on the roof, which can damage that surface.

4. Lastly, make sure water exits the downspouts away from the foundation to avoid water pressure on the home's structure. Extend the downspouts, if necessary, and consider installing splash blocks at the end of each downspout to divert and dissipate water instead of allowing it to pool.

If you are concerned about your gutters give us a call today we will come out and inspect the gutters (at no charge). If they need service we will with your approval; clean the gutters and downspouts, insure the hangers and connections are all holding properly, insure that the outlets are extended away from the foundation. If you continue to have water issues in the basement let us know and we can discuss the next steps to drying out your basement but we do find that this stops 75% of the water issues we see. Call or write with any questions or concerns you may have: Bob@creativecontracting.biz /215-661-8581