We always get water in our basement when it rains. Are there things that we can do ourselves to fix the problem?

Yes, absolutely. There are several things homeowners should do as part of routine yearly maintenance to help prevent basement water problems.

The first thing you should check is your gutters and downspouts. Make sure water is not collecting in clogged gutters and spilling over near the foundation of your home. Over time, that water can pool around the outside perimeter and eventually find its way into your basement.

If this is happening, clean the gutters thoroughly and make sure the downspouts are directing water far enough away from the home. If overflowing gutters are a recurring issue because of nearby trees, investing in quality gutter guards may help reduce maintenance and keep water flowing properly.

Next, inspect the grading around your home. The soil should slope away from the foundation so rainwater naturally drains away instead of collecting against the house. If the grading has settled over time, adding clean topsoil and compacting it properly can often improve drainage significantly.

You should also inspect outdoor hose connections, spigots, irrigation systems, and any visible plumbing connections for leaks both inside and outside the home. Even small leaks can contribute to moisture problems over time.

If you have already addressed all of these issues and are still getting water in your basement, the problem is likely being caused by hydrostatic pressure. This happens when groundwater builds up around the foundation and forces water through concrete, cinder block walls, or floor cracks.

Water is incredibly powerful. Over time, it can force itself through materials that appear completely solid. When this type of pressure develops around a foundation, routine home maintenance alone usually will not solve the problem.

In those situations, a professionally installed basement waterproofing system is often needed to properly relieve the pressure and redirect water safely away from the home.

One important piece of advice: do not hire the first company you call. Get multiple estimates, ask questions, and avoid high-pressure sales tactics. Basement waterproofing systems can vary dramatically in quality and price, so it is important to make sure you are getting the best long-term value for your investment.