After discovering water in your basement, you’ll want to uncover the source to ensure it doesn’t happen again. There are usually two main culprits:
- The water came from a burst pipe or backed up drain leading to the sewer.
- The water came from a crack in the basement foundation.
These two water sources are two very different problems, obviously requiring very different solutions. To determine if it’s a sewer pipe leaking into the basement, and a plumber that you need to call, ask these two questions:
How much water is there? Burst pipes, clogged fixtures or backed-up drains usually result in large amounts of water. There won’t be much time to collect the water either, as it will rush in over a short period of time. Leaks in the foundation, on the other hand, typically enter the basement much more slowly, seeping in to cause water marks or condensation on the walls or small puddles on the floor.
How bad does the water smell? While water from a burst pipe can be clear, it may not be sanitary. More often than not, water from burst pipes, clogged fixtures or backed-up drains will come with a foul odor. Leaks from the foundation; however, will almost always be clear and odor-free.
There are a number of reasons you could be experiencing basement flooding, so it’s important to consult a professional for help determining the cause before immediately deciding that replacing the sewer pipe in the basement will fix the problem.
For example, during heavy rains, sewer systems can become overwhelmed with water. In this case, you would want to install a sump pump in your basement to help manage the excess water.
Another problem might be a secondary line clogged with grease, waste, or tree roots. In this case, you might consider scheduling regular sewer line and drain cleanings.