Common Reasons for a Leaky Basement in Boston
- John Screen
- 13 hours ago
- 2 min read
If you’ve noticed water in your basement, you’re not alone. Leaky basements in Boston are a common issue, especially in older homes. From cracked foundations to poor drainage, there are a few key reasons why this happens.
At JMS Masonry & Restoration, we’re experts in foundation repair and basement waterproofing in Greater Boston. In this post, we’ll go over the most common causes of basement leaks and how to fix them.
TL;DR: Most basement leaks in Boston are caused by cracks, poor drainage, or failing waterproofing, but the good news is, they can be repaired.
Bad Drainage Outside Your Home
The Water Has Nowhere To Go
If your gutters or downspouts are clogged or broken, rainwater can build up next to your home. That water puts pressure on your foundation and can start leaking into the basement.
Simple fix: Make sure your gutters are clean and downspouts move water at least 6 feet away from your house.
Cracks in the Foundation
Small Cracks Lead To Big Problems
Over time, homes settle and shift, especially in Boston’s cold winters. This can cause cracks in the walls or floor of your foundation, letting water seep in.
At JMS Masonry, we seal cracks and provide foundation repair in Boston to stop leaks and protect your home.
Water Pressure from the Ground
When the soil around your home is full of water, that water pushes against your basement walls. If there’s no proper waterproofing, the pressure can force water through small openings.
This is common in places with high water tables, like parts of Somerville or Jamaica Plain.
Old or Failing Waterproofing
Systems Don’t Last Forever
If your basement was waterproofed years ago, the system might be worn out. Old sealants, sump pumps, or drains can fail over time.
We offer basement waterproofing in Boston, built to protect older homes from modern problems.
Yard Slopes Toward the House
Grading Matters
If the ground around your home slopes toward the foundation, rainwater will naturally flow in that direction. Over time, that can cause leaks.
Quick tip: Re-grading the yard or adding a drainage trench can help.
Basement Windows and Bulkheads
Watch for Common Leak Spots
Basement windows and bulkheads can leak if they’re not sealed properly. Water often pools in window wells and sneaks in through weak spots.
Let’s Fix Your Leaky Basement in Boston
Whether you're dealing with damp spots or full-on flooding, JMS Masonry is your go-to for foundation repair and waterproofing in Greater Boston. We’ll find the problem and fix it, so you can stop worrying about water damage.
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