If you live in an area with cold winters, your basement is at risk of leaking. Water can enter your basement through cracks in the walls or floor, or through openings around pipes and windows. Even a small leak can cause extensive damage to your home, so it's important to be aware of the signs of a leak and to take steps to prevent one from happening.

Here are six common reasons your basement might leak in the winter:

1. Melting Snow

When snow melts, it can seep into your basement through cracks in the foundation or around windows and doors. Melting snow can also cause the ground around your home to shift, which can put pressure on your foundation and cause cracks. To prevent leaks from melting snow, make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris so they can properly drain water away from your home. You should also seal any cracks in your foundation and caulk around windows and doors.

2. Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common causes of winter basement leaks. When water in your pipes freezes, it expands and puts pressure on the pipes. This can cause the pipes to burst, which can lead to serious flooding. To prevent your pipes from freezing, insulate them with foam pipe insulation or wrap them in electrical heating tape. You should also let a trickle of water run through your pipes when the temperature outside is very cold.

3. Cracks in the Foundation

Cracks in your foundation are another common cause of basement leaks. These cracks can be caused by settling, water pressure, or the freeze-thaw cycle. To prevent leaks from cracks in your foundation, seal the cracks with hydraulic cement or polyurethane caulk. You should also make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear so they can properly drain water away from your home.

4. Improper Drainage

If your home's gutters and downspouts are not properly draining water away from your foundation, it can cause water to pool around your home and seep into your basement. To prevent this, make sure your gutters and downspouts are clear of debris and are properly draining water away from your home. You should also ensure the ground around your home slopes away from your foundation so water will drain away from your home.

5. Clogged Clutter

If your basement is cluttered, it can be difficult to spot a leak when it happens. Clutter can also make it harder to access pipes and windows to repair them, which can lead to further damage. To prevent this, keep your basement clean and organized.

6. Poorly Sealed Windows

Improperly sealed windows are one of the most common ways water can enter your basement. If your windows are old or poorly installed, they may not fit snugly in their frames, leaving gaps for water to seep through. You can check for leaks by doing a simple water test. Simply wet a piece of paper or cloth and hold it up to the window. If the paper or cloth sticks to the window, there's a good chance water is getting in.

Conclusion

There are a few common reasons your basement might leak in the winter. Some of these include: melting snow and ice, cracked foundations, and poor drainage around your home. 

If you suspect your basement is leaking, it's important to take action right away. Not only can leaks cause serious damage to your home, but they can also lead to mold and mildew growth, which can pose serious health risks. 

If you're not sure how to fix a leak, or if the problem is too big for you to handle, it's always best to call in a professional. With their help, you can get your basement leak-free and keep your home in tip-top shape all winter long.

Advanced Basement Waterproofing provides top-quality services for basement floodproofing. Our professional contractors will ensure your home's basement is waterproof to prevent damage, all for fair prices. Get a free quote now!