Why a Basement Leaks and How To Fix It Permanently!

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Chapter 1: What Causes a Wet Basement? (Excerpt)

you are reading this book, it is highly likely you have experienced some sort of wet or damp basement. The definition of "wet" may vary from one homeowner to another. For the purposes of this chapter, "wet" shall be defined as visible water collecting on the floor. A wet basement, by this definition, would have ¼" or more of standing water on the floor for our purpose. It is important to differentiate between a wet and a damp basement. Dampness can mean that there is a humidity problem – wetness means that you have a water problem. Each of these two issues is addressed differently.

The construction of the basement is a key factor in why a basement gets wet. When building a home, the contractor digs down approximately 8 to 10 feet, which creates a bowl-like formation in the lawn. The contractor then installs footings, which will bear the weight of the structure. These footings are made of concrete reinforced with steel...

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