What Are Porous Concrete Basement Walls?: What You Need to Know

Surprisingly, those sturdy concrete walls in your basement might not be as waterproof as you think. In fact, concrete is porous, meaning moisture can seep through easily and cause all sorts of problems for your home.

In this guide, we’ll explore more about porous concrete walls, discovering why they’re a concern and what you can do to protect your basement.

Water in your basement can cause big problems. It can make your basement walls wet and create wall cracks that weaken your home’s structural stability.

It can also lead to mold and musty odors which are bad for your health. You might even notice high humidity in your basement (or throughout your entire home).

An interior drainage system collects water in your basement and moves it out using a series of drains and pumps, as well as the grading of the basement.  

The system is clog-free, so it doesn’t get backed up by small debris or other objects that may end up in the drains with the water. This means less maintenance for you.

A sump pump is a vital part of any basement waterproofing system, especially in areas with heavy rain. Installed in the home’s lowest point, a sump pit, it collects and pumps out excess water, preventing flooding.

If any water gets through the concrete walls, the sump pump will collect it and pump it out of the basement. Consider a battery-powered backup sump pump in case of power outages.

Vapor barriers attach to the walls of your basement. They create a seal around the porous concrete to stop moisture from getting through to your basement. With a drainage system installed alongside a vapor barrier, the blocked moisture is moved away from the basement quickly and efficiently.

Humid air can be a source of many health problems and in the long run, it can damage wooden construction and basement walls themselves. Installing a dehumidifier in a basement stops these issues. They also clean and filter the air, helping to reduce mold and mildew in the process.

Porous concrete may end up damaging your basement, preventing it from being a functional space. That’s why it’s essential to waterproof your basement as soon as possible.

AFS Foundation & Waterproofing Specialists is the Southeast’s leading basement waterproofing team. Contact us today to schedule a free inspection and repair quote today and put basement water back in its place!