Water Seeping Through Floor: Causes and Solutions

Water seeping through the concrete floor of your house indicates a hidden water leak.

There are many causes of water rising through the floor of your property including structural, plumbing or drainage issues.

Water pooling on the floor after rainfall is indicative of a structural issue below ground level.

Hidden water leaks under a floor have potential to cause serious water damage to your home including mould, mildew, structural damage and pest infestations.

Solving the cause of water ingress through the floor requires a professional leak inspection using non-invasive leak detection techniques. ADI Leak Detection provide both plumbing and structural leak detection services.

Why Is Water Coming Through My Floor?

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

1) 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 cracks over time.

2) Plumbing leaks in the subsurface cause water to rise and seep through the flooring. Water from a leaking pipe will seep through the walls and floors, causing damage to your home. Water damage from plumbing leaks is particularly common in older homes where the pipes are corroded or damaged.

3) Damaged or improperly installed flooring can allow water to seep through. A tile floor with cracked grout will allow water to seep through the cracks and damage the sub-floor.

4) A Clogged Drainage System (Blocked gutters, downspouts, or drainage pipes) back up causing sewerage to rise through the floor.

5) A high water table can also cause water seepage through the floor. A high water table means that the water level in the ground is close to the surface, which can lead to water seepage through the floor.

6) Failed waterproofing in basements or bathrooms will allow water to seep through the floor and walls.

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

Is water coming up through floor after rain?

Water seeping through your floor after rainfall indicates a structural issue below the surface of your property.

Damp proof membrane: damaged or missing, causing rising damp.
Underfloor drain: potentially broken, leading to leaks.
External ground water level: above DPC, resulting in water ingress.
Cavity wall: inspect for internal water leaks.

Identifying the cause of water coming up from under the floor following rainfall requires a structural leak detection investigation

Consequences Of Floor Water Seepage

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 crumbling concrete slab, rotting wood or rusting metal.
Mold and mildew growth: Water seepage can create a moist environment that is conducive to the growth of mold and mildew. These fungi can cause respiratory problems.
Stains and discoloration: Water seepage can cause unsightly stains and discoloration on flooring, walls, and ceilings.
Slip and fall hazards: Wet floors can be slippery and pose a slip and fall hazard to occupants of the building.
Electrical hazards: If water seeps into electrical wiring or appliances, it can create an electrical hazard that could cause a fire or other damage.
Pest infestations: Moisture can attract pests such as termites, ants, and cockroaches, which can cause further damage to the building.

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.

How to Stop Water From Seeping Through Your Floor

Now that we’ve identified the possible causes and consequences of water seepage, it’s now time to learn several solutions that homeowners can employ to stop the seepage and prevent further damage.

Here are some quick fix methods you can do for each of the specific causes of the water seepage:

1) Damaged surface floor: Repair or replace the damaged flooring to prevent water from seeping through. Consider using a water-resistant material or coating on the new flooring.

2) Cracks in the foundation: Fill any cracks in the foundation with an appropriate sealant to prevent water from seeping through. Consider hiring a professional if the cracks are extensive.

3) Plumbing Leaks: Fix any leaking pipes as soon as possible. If the leak has caused water damage, dry the affected area thoroughly and repair any damage before replacing any flooring or wall coverings.

4) Improperly installed or damaged flooring: Repair or replace any damaged flooring and ensure proper installation. Consider using a water-resistant underlayment or installing a moisture barrier between the subfloor and the new flooring.

5) Clogged Drainage System: Regularly clean gutters, downspouts, and drainage pipes to prevent blockages. Install screens or guards to keep debris from entering the drainage system.

6) High Water Table: Use a sump pump to remove excess water from the ground beneath your home. This will improve drainage in the surrounding area to lower the water table level.

7) Roof leaks: Repair any roof damage as soon as possible to prevent water from seeping through. Apply roofing cement to damaged or missing shingles, seal cracks in flashing with roofing cement, and replace damaged flashing or gutters as needed. Reach out to a professional if the damage is extensive.

8) Poor waterproofing: Install proper waterproofing measures such as waterproof membranes, sealants, or coatings to prevent water from seeping through the walls and floors.

9) Natural disasters: If you live in an area prone to flooding, consider elevating your home or installing flood-resistant materials. Install a sump pump or French drain to remove excess water. In case of heavy rain, take necessary precautions to prevent water damage.