What To Do When There’s Water Under My House?

Your home’s foundation is one of its most critical components. If the foundation is weak, it can lead to serious structural issues, including cracks in walls, uneven floors, and doors that won’t close properly. But did you know that water under your house can compromise the foundation and cause severe problems? Excess moisture can lead to mold growth and wood rot, and even attract pests. If you’ve noticed water pooling under your house, you might wonder how to address it. The good news is that it is treatable, but you need to act fast. This blog will discuss what to do when there is water under your house and the best ways to fix the issue.

Signs That There Is Water Under Your House

Before taking action, you must confirm that water is accumulating under your house. Here are some signs to look out for:

• Musty Odors: A persistent damp smell could indicate moisture buildup.
• Mold or Mildew: If you see mold on walls, floors, or baseboards, there could be hidden water damage.
• Warped or Soft Floors: Water can cause wood to swell, leading to uneven floors.
• Noticed Standing Water: If you see puddles under your house, that clearly signifies a drainage issue.
• Increased Pest Activity: Termites, mosquitoes, and rodents thrive in damp conditions.

Where Is the Water Coming From?

To fix the basement flooding problem, you first need to determine the source of the water. Here are the most common causes:

• Poor Drainage: If your yard slopes towards your house instead of away from it, water will naturally flow under the foundation.
• Broken or Leaking Pipes: A hidden plumbing leak can cause water to accumulate unnoticed.
• Heavy Rainfall and Flooding: Heavy rains can lead to water buildup if your home is in a low-lying area.
• High Water Table: In naturally high water table areas, groundwater can seep under your home.
• Clogged or Faulty Gutters: If gutters aren’t directing water away correctly, they can accumulate near the foundation and seep under the house.

How to Remove Water from Under Your House

Once you identify the source, it’s time to remove the water and prevent further damage. Here are the best solutions:

Improve Drainage Around Your Home

If poor drainage is the problem, you must direct water away from your foundation. You can do this by:

• Regarding the Landscape: Ensure the ground slopes away from your house.
• Installing French Drains: These underground drains help divert water from the house foundation.
• Extending Downspouts: Ensure that downspouts direct water at least 6 feet away from your home.

Fix Plumbing Leaks

If a pipe leaks under your house, you must locate and repair it immediately. A plumber can detect hidden leaks and replace damaged pipes to prevent further water buildup.

Encapsulate Your Crawl Space

If your home has a crawl space, encapsulating it can prevent moisture problems. This involves repairing the crawl space floor with a vapor barrier and adding proper ventilation to control humidity levels.

Install a Dehumidifier

A dehumidifier can help dry the air and prevent mold growth if moisture levels remain high. This is especially useful for homes with crawl spaces or basements.

Preventing Future Water Problems

After addressing the immediate issue, you need to take steps to prevent water from accumulating under your house in the future. Here’s how:

• Regularly Inspect Gutters and Downspouts: Clean them out at least twice yearly to ensure proper water flow.
• Check for Plumbing Leaks: Even a tiny leak can lead to significant water buildup over time.
• Maintain Your Foundation: Seal any cracks to prevent water from seeping in.
• Monitor Your Yard’s Drainage: After heavy rain, walk around your home and check if water is pooling near the foundation.

When to Call a Professional?

While some water issues can be handled with DIY solutions, there are times when professional help is needed. Call a professional if:

• Water keeps returning despite your efforts.
• Significant structural damage is being done to your foundation.
• You suspect a severe plumbing leak.
• Mold and mildew are spreading rapidly inside your home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are you interested in learning more about how your home’s foundation acts underwater? Read these commonly asked questions:

Q1. Is water under my house dangerous?

A: Yes, water under your house can lead to foundation damage, mold growth, pest infestations, and even structural instability if left untreated.

Q2. How do I know if I have water under my house?

A: Look for signs such as a musty smell, mold growth, warped floors, standing water, or increased pest activity.

Q3. Can I remove the water myself?

A: In some cases, yes. Improving drainage and fixing leaks can help. However, persistent or large-scale issues may require professional help.

Q4. How much does it cost to fix water problems in a house?

A: The cost varies depending on the cause. Simple fixes like improving drainage may cost a few hundred dollars, while major repairs, like foundation work, can cost several thousand dollars.

Q5. Will the homeowner’s insurance cover water damage under my house?

A: It depends on the cause. Insurance may cover sudden events like burst pipes but usually does not cover gradual issues like poor drainage or groundwater seepage.

Conclusion

Water under your house is a serious issue that requires immediate attention. Ignoring it can lead to foundation damage, mold growth, and pest infestations. With the right approach, you can remove the water, fix the problem, and prevent future occurrences. Need to improve drainage or fix leaks? Taking action now will save you from costly repairs in the future. If the problem persists, don’t hesitate to call in a professional to protect your home from long-term damage.

Contact Ameri-Dry for Quick Response Foundation Repair!

Are you worried about the creeping damage that water can cause to your home’s foundation, crawl space, or basement? Don’t let standing water and moisture issues compromise the safety and stability of your home. Ameri-Dry addresses all foundation-related problems with unmatched finesse and attention to detail. 

Our team of experts makes sure that your home remains structurally sound and free from water damage. Contact us today and schedule a free inspection to protect your home.