Introduction:
Homeowners in Knoxville often ask if it is normal to have water in their crawl space after heavy rain. Well, it all depends on what you mean by “normal.”
If by “normal” you mean “common,” then, unfortunately, the answer is yes; it is quite common for water to collect in crawl spaces after heavy rain as they are typically located below ground level.
Now, if by “normal” you mean something you do not have to worry about, then the answer is no. While it may be a common occurrence, it is also a sign of an underlying problem with possible long-term consequences that you will want to address as soon as possible.
In this article, Guardian Foundation Repair, the crawl space repair experts will cover:
- The dangers of water in your crawl space
- What causes water to collect in your crawl space
- How to prevent water from collecting in your crawl space
The Dangers of Water in Your Crawl Space:
While you may wonder what harm a little water could do, as it will eventually evaporate on its own, the truth is stagnant water takes a long time to dry out or get absorbed by the ground, and it can cause a lot of damage.
Some of the dangers of water in your crawl space include the following:
Mold and Mildew Growth:
As water pooled in your crawl space evaporates, it clings to the wood joist and other surface areas. It will cause the wood to rot as mold spores start to grow. Once the mold growth starts in the wood, it will also spread along the joint and the floorboard to get into your home’s walls and impact your indoor air quality.
Structural Damage:
Water can seep through the smallest cracks in your foundation and eat away at the concrete. As the water continues to pool in your crawl space, the hydrostatic pressure will increase, causing the walls to bow or even collapse.
Pest Infestation:
Stagnant water is the perfect breeding ground for pests like mosquitoes, rodents, termites, and other insects, leading to an infestation in and around your home.
Bad Smells:
As the water starts to stagnate and rot, it releases a foul odor that can permeate your home.
What Causes Water to Collect in Your Crawl Space?
A crawl space is a protected area beneath your home that helps keep your house’s structure intact. Although It is designed to stay dry throughout the year, having some water in your crawl space can be normal as long as it evaporates quickly. However, having stagnant water is a cause for concern as it can lead to the abovementioned problems.
There are several reasons why water might collect in your crawl space, including:
Leaking Pipes:
While most of the plumbing in your home is meant to be hidden away behind walls, some pipes run through the crawl space. The main water line that comes into your home is one example. If this pipe leaks due to old age, corrosion, or damage, it can cause water to start pooling in your crawl space.
Cracked Foundation:
The foundation is what your home is built on and needs to be in good condition to keep it structurally sound. With time, though, foundations can settle and crack. These cracks can allow water to seep in and start pooling in your crawl space.
Poor Grading:
When a home is first built, the ground is graded so rainwater from the roof or gutter will flow away from the foundation. Over time, however, the ground can settle or erode. So even changing this grading or performing landscaping work on your property can cause water to start flowing toward the foundation and seeping into the crawl space.
How to Prevent Water from Collecting in Your Crawl Space
While you may not be able to control the weather, there are some things you can do to prevent water from collecting in your crawl space. These include:
Fix Leaking Pipes:
Leaking water pipes will only worsen over time and increase your water bill.
If you have any pipes running through your crawl space, it’s important to have them checked regularly for leaks. If a leak is found, it’s best to have it fixed as soon as possible by a professional plumber.
Repair Cracks in the Foundation:
Repairing foundation cracks can help to prevent water from seeping in and causing problems.
Our foundation repair expert in Knoxville uses different methods to fix cracks in foundations, so it’s best to have an inspection to determine the best method for your particular case.
French Drain Installation:
The gutters that discharge water from your roof should be directed away from your home. If they’re not, water can pool around your foundation and eventually seep in through cracks or other openings. French drain installation can redirect water away from your home. This trench is gravel-filled and has a pipe running through the center. The water is directed into the pipe and away from your home, keeping your crawl space dry.
Crawl Space Encapsulation:
When we talk about crawl space encapsulation, we mean sealing it off from the outside environment with a vapor barrier. It helps keep water and moisture out while preventing harmful gasses from seeping in. An encapsulated crawl space is also easier to keep clean and free of pests.
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Install a Sump Pump:
A sump pump is a device that’s installed in the lowest part of your crawl space. It includes a pit that collects water and a pump that sends the water away from your home. Sump pumps can effectively prevent water from collecting in your crawl space, but they must be properly maintained.
Unclog Gutters and Downspouts:
Your gutter drainage system may be why water seeps into your crawl space. If your gutters are full of debris, they will need to be able to funnel water away from your home properly. Therefore, cleaning your gutters regularly is important, ensuring that your downspout installation is done correctly and unobstructed.
Why Have Guardian Foundation Repair Experts Assist You with Crawl Space Repair?
If standing water in your crawl space gives you sleepless nights, call on the Guardian Foundation Repair experts to provide you with a perfect crawl space repair solution.
We have many years of experience fixing all types of foundation repair problems, including those that cause water to seep in. Our team of certified and insured professionals uses only the latest tools and techniques to perform repairs.
Contact us today for a free, no-obligation quote!