Water Seepage: Negative Effect of Building

Written By Adam Paul - Waterproofing Expert

The water seepage is moving water from the source gradually. The seepage can increase due to the hydrostatic pressure of the source. Water seepage is a crucial problem for a building. Seeped water can increase mold and mildew growth, rot the wood parts, deteriorate the materials, increase the electrical hazards, decrease the air quality, and decrease the property value.

Water seepage and leakage are two different scenarios that both harm the building structure. Water seepage can increase due to rain and snow melting, poor drainage systems, increasing crack gaps, rising groundwater, and poor landscape design issues. Seepage can decrease when the soil is unsaturated and decreases the pore water pressure.

The most affected building parts due to seepage are the basement floor, basement walls, foundation, crawl space, and concrete slabs. Continuously wetting areas like shower areas, toilet areas, and bathtub areas are the most water-seeped areas in the house.

Water seepage occurs due to environmental factors and human faults such as heavy rainfall or snow melting, land inclination, poor soil drainage around the basement, cracks and damages, exterior grading, faulty plumbing, leaky pipes, and improper drainage systems in the garden. You can detect water seepage from detecting devices, visual signs, musty odors, pooling water, moisture meters, and water bills.

In order to prevent water seepage, you should install a water-impervious layer on the seeped surface. You can stop the water seepage permanently by installing a waterproofing membrane on the surface. You can control the water seepage by sealing foundation cracks, improving surface grading, maintaining gutters and downspouts, installing window well covers, and considering waterproofing.

What is the Definition of Seepage?

The definition of seepage is moving water from the source gradually through cracks, joints, or porous materials of the structure. The seepage rate is increased with the hydrostatic pressure of the water source. The water seepage is a major issue in a building. It causes a negative impact on the building to reduce the building's strength.

The most seeped areas in the building are the basement, foundation, and bathroom. Seepage can dampen the wall surface, increase mold and mildew growth, rot the wood parts, deteriorate the materials, increase the electrical hazards, decrease the air quality, and decrease the property value. The seepage can change with the environmental conditions and human activities. To prevent seepage in the building, we should use a water barrier.

Differences Between Water Seepage and Leakage

The main differences between water seepage and leakage - Water seepage is a gradual movement of water through cracks, joints, or porous materials, and Water leakage is a water flows or drips from the water source.

Water seepage can increase with hydrostatic pressure and prolonged periods, and it tends to cause moisture damage, mold growth, and weakened structure.

Water leakage is often visible and can cause sudden flooding, property damage, and even health hazards due to electrical risks or contaminated water.

Understanding these scenarios is important to prevent structural water damage. It helps to prevent water damage by applying waterproofing membranes, sealing cracks, or repairing plumbing leaks, depending on the nature of the problem.

What Are the Reasons to Increase Water Seepage?

Water seepage can change due to environmental conditions. Water seepage can increase when the groundwater is saturated from the water. Seepage can decrease due to the unsaturated condition of the soil. Water seepage can change due to these reasons.

Reasons for increasing the water seepage

Rain and snow melting: Rainy or snow melting season can change the groundwater level and increase the water seepage.
Poor drainage system: Poor drainage systems can leak water into the groundwater and increase the saturation of the soil.
Increase the cracks and gaps: Water seepage can increase due to crack and gap length increasing.
Rising groundwater level: Rising groundwater level can cause an increase in soil saturation and groundwater pressure. This can increase the seepage.
High hydrostatic pressure: High hydrostatic pressure can force the water to seep out quickly. Hence, it increases the water seepage.
Poor landscaping issues: Poor landscaping design can accumulate groundwater close to the basement and foundation. It can increase the water seepage.

What are the Negative Impacts of Water Seepage on Buildings?

The 7 negative impacts of water seepage on buildings are below

Weaken building materials such as concrete, wood, and steel
Reduce the structural strength of the building
Rotting the wooden building structure due to water
Rusting the metals due to contaminated water
Persistent dampness and fosters mold growth on building surfaces
Spoil the building’s aesthetic appeal by causing stains and efflorescence
Peel of the paints on the walls

Read More: How to waterproof the basement?

Mainly, water seepage issues are found in basements and foundations. Groundwater can seep into the basement during winter and rainy season. Seeped water can cause to dampness and a musty smell in the basement. Building structure can be reduced due to water seepage in the foundation. You can resolve these issues with simple repairs. As a permanent solution, you can waterproof the basement floor, basement walls, and foundation.

What Building Parts are Most Affected by Water Seepage?

The most affected building parts due to seepage are the basement floor, basement walls, foundation, crawl space, and concrete slabs. These parts are subjected to water damage such as increasing dampness, mold and mildew growth, rotting the materials, deteriorating the materials, and weakening the structural stability.

Seepage in the Basement Floor

Basement floor seepage can occur due to mainly 5 reasons: inadequate drainage around the foundation, cracks or gaps in the basement walls, high water table levels in the surrounding soil, heavy rainfall or flooding, and plumbing leaks or burst pipes close to the basement.

Basement seepage can lead to several negative impacts. Those are standing groundwater level, creating excessive moisture, increasing the growth of mold and mildew, and weakening the foundation, compromising the structural integrity of the basement and the entire house.

Hence It is crucial to waterproof the basement floor to prevent these negative impacts. A waterproof basement floor can stop the water seepage and leakage and increase the dryness in the basement. It reduces many water-related problems in the house.

Seepage in the Basement Walls

Basement wall seepage can occur due to various factors, such as inadequate drainage systems in the basement, higher hydrostatic pressure, foundation cracks, improper grading, and plumbing leaks. Each of these reasons contributes to water seepage in the basement, which can lead to significant problems in your house.

An inadequate drainage system around the basement can cause water to accumulate and exert hydrostatic pressure on the walls. This pressure can lead to cracks and weakened structural integrity over time. Foundation cracks allow water to enter the basement, causing seepage and potentially damaging valuable items or furniture stored there.

Improper grading of the land can result in water pooling around the foundation. Additionally, plumbing leaks within or near the basement can contribute to moisture issues and seepage. All of these reasons for basement wall seepage can result in a range of negative impacts, including mold growth, musty odors, deterioration of building materials, and even structural damage. In order to prevent these problems, you should know about basement waterproofing using a suitable waterproofing method.

Water seepage and wall damage is a common problem in the house. This guide will help you to understand all types of wall seepage, repairs, hiding and preventions.

Seepage in Foundation

Foundation seepage can occur due to several reasons, such as inadequate drainage, high water table, faulty construction, hydrostatic pressure, and heavy rainfall. These reasons can lead to various negative impacts on the foundation of your home. For instance, constant moisture infiltration can weaken the foundation and cause cracks or even structural damage.

To prevent these negative impacts, you should know about foundation waterproofing. A waterproof foundation offers numerous advantages, including protection against water seepage, enhanced structural integrity, and improved indoor air quality.

By preventing moisture intrusion, you can avoid the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose health risks to you and your family. Additionally, a waterproof foundation reduces basement flooding during heavy rainfall. It protects your possessions and allows you to maximize the usable space in your basement.

Seepage in Crawl Space

Crawl Space seepage can occur due to five main reasons: poor foundation drainage, high groundwater levels, cracked or damaged walls/floors, faulty or inadequate waterproofing, and improper land grading.

These factors can lead to several negative impacts on the crawl space and your home. Seepage in the crawl space can result in excessive moisture accumulation, leading to the growth of mold, mildew, and fungus. This can cause unpleasant odors and pose health risks to you and your family. The constant presence of water in the Crawl Space can weaken the foundation, causing structural damage over time. This can lead to cracks in the walls and floors, affecting the stability and safety of your home.

To mitigate these issues, it is essential to waterproof the Crawl Space. A waterproof crawl space can prevent seepage, moisture and water are effectively redirected away from your home's foundation, keeping it dry and free from potential damage. Additionally, it helps to maintain optimal indoor air quality by preventing the growth of mold and mildew.

Seepage in Concrete Slab

Concrete Slab seepage can occur due to a variety of reasons, including cracks, improper drainage, high water table, inadequate waterproofing, and faulty plumbing. These factors can lead to significant problems for homeowners dealing with water seepage issues.

Cracks in the concrete slab allow water to seep through, resulting in moisture accumulation, mold growth, and potential damage to the foundation.
Improper drainage and a high water table can exacerbate the seepage problem, as water may continuously push against the slab. It causes to weaken and potentially crack further.
Inadequate waterproofing during construction or age-related deterioration can also lead to seepage issues, allowing water to penetrate the slab and cause damage to the basement floor and walls.
Leaky plumbing or faulty piping systems can contribute to seepage problems, making it essential to address any plumbing issues promptly.

To prevent these negative impacts, it is crucial to waterproof the Concrete Slab. A waterproof concrete slab provides a barrier against water penetration, preventing seepage and safeguarding the basement from water-related issues.

What are the Causes of Water Seepage?

Water seepage occurs due to environmental factors and human faults. Understanding these causes and reasons that contribute to water seepage is essential in preventing further damage and ensuring the integrity of the building. Homeowners should know these 8 critical factors of water seepage in the area of the house structure to prevent water damage from the seepage.

The house is situated on the inclined land
Heavy rainfall or snow melting season
Poor soil drainage around the foundation
Cracks and damages on the foundation
Improper exterior(land) grading
Faulty plumbing in the house
Leaky pipes in the house
Improper drainages in the garden

Home owners should inspect their homes for signs of water seepage and address any underlying causes promptly to prevent further damage and potential health hazards.

How to Detect Water Seepage?

You should know how to detect water seepage in order to address the issue promptly and prevent further damage. You can follow the below methods to detect water seepage before it tends to leak.

Use a seepage detection device: A seepage detection device can identify any potential leaks or seepage points in the building structure.
Inspect water seepage through visual signs: Water seepage can be detected by visually examining the walls, floors, and ceilings for any signs of water stains, discolouration, or peeling paint.
Inspect for musty odors: You should pay attention to musty odors or dampness in certain areas can also indicate water seepage.
Check for pooling water: You should check for signs of pooling water around the foundation, basements, or crawl spaces.
Use a moisture meter: Moisture meters can measure the moisture content in materials such as walls, floors, and ceilings.
Increasing the water bills: Unexpected increases of water bills may result from water leakage or seepage.

How to Stop Water Seepage?

To stop water seepage in your basement floor and prevent water damage to your home, you should follow these 7 quick and effective steps.

Identify the seeped water source: Determine the cause of the water seepage, such as cracks in the foundation or faulty drainage systems.
Seal foundation cracks: Use a concrete sealant to fill any cracks or gaps in the foundation walls to prevent water from seeping through.
Install exterior waterproofing: Apply a waterproof membrane or coating on the exterior walls to create a barrier against groundwater seepage. When you waterproof, you should know how to waterproof the basement properly.
Improve surface grading: Ensure the ground slopes away from the foundation to direct water away from your basement. Add soil or regrade if necessary.
Maintain gutters and downspouts: Clear debris from gutters and ensure that downspouts are properly directed away from the foundation to prevent water buildup.
Install window well covers: Use clear plastic covers on basement windows to prevent water from entering through window wells.
Consider interior drainage system: If other measures are not sufficient, you can install an interior drainage system or sump pump to collect and remove excess water.

By following these steps, you will be able to effectively stop water seepage in your basement, providing a dry and safe environment for your home. Taking proactive measures to stop groundwater seepage and protect your basement floor from water seepage ensures the long-term stability and durability of your property.