WATER SEEPING THROUGH FLOOR:
CAUSES AND SOLUTIONS

Water seeping through your wood floor, basement floor or concrete floor can be caused by several issues.

1. Cracks in the foundation: Cracks in the foundation allow water to seep through the floor. This is particularly common in homes with concrete foundations, as concrete is prone to cracking over time.
2. Plumbing leaks: Plumbing leaks in the subsurface cause water to rise and seep through the flooring. Water from a leaking pipe can seep through walls and floors, causing damage to your home. Water damage from plumbing leaks is especially common in older properties where the pipes are corroded or damaged.
3. Damaged or improperly installed flooring: Damaged or poorly installed flooring can allow water to seep through. For example, a tile floor with cracked grout will let water pass through the gaps and damage the sub-floor beneath.
4. A clogged drainage system: Blocked gutters, downspouts, or drainage pipes can cause water and sewerage to back up and rise through the floor, leading to seepage and contamination.
5. A high water table: A high water table means that the water level in the ground is close to the surface. When this happens, ground water can push up and seep through the floor, especially in basements or lower ground levels.
6. Failed waterproofing: Failed or deteriorated waterproofing in basements or bathrooms will allow water to seep through the floor and walls, leading to damp, mould and structural damage over time.

The consequences of ignoring water seeping through the floor can be costly and time-consuming to repair.

Water seepage specifically after rainfall indicates a structural issue below the property's surface.

1. Damp proof membrane: Damaged or missing, leading to rising damp.
2. Underfloor drain: Potentially broken, causing leaks.
3. External ground water level: Above DPC (Damp Proof Course), causing water ingress.
4. Cavity wall: Suggests inspecting for internal water leaks.

Identifying the cause after rainfall requires a structural leak detection investigation.

Water seeping through the floor can have drastic effects which vary depending on the severity and duration of the issue.

• Structural damage: If water continues to seep through a floor it will cause damage to the underlying building materials. Structural damage can include a crumbling concrete slab, rotting timber or rusting metal supports.
• Mould and mildew growth: Water seepage can create a moist environment that is conducive to the growth of mould and mildew. These fungi can cause respiratory problems and may aggravate existing conditions such as asthma.
• Stains and discolouration: Water seepage can cause unsightly stains and discolouration on flooring, walls, and ceilings, which often require extensive cleaning, redecoration or replacement.
• Slip and fall hazards: Wet floors can be slippery and pose a slip and fall hazard to occupants of the building, increasing the risk of injury.
• Electrical hazards: If water seeps into electrical wiring, sockets or appliances, it can create an electrical hazard that could cause a fire, short-circuit or damage to equipment.
• Pest infestations: Moisture can attract pests such as termites, ants and cockroaches, which can cause further damage to the building structure and create additional health concerns.

It is difficult to determine why water is seeping through a floor without a detailed leak inspection.

Many times it is a combination of factors that are causing the problem, so a professional assessment may be necessary to identify these underlying causes.