Understanding Water Behavior Around Your Home
How Water Flows Around Your Property
While water typically flows downhill, it doesn’t always follow a straightforward path. Picture pouring a glass of water onto a hard surface; it will naturally move to the lowest point, following the path of least resistance. But if you pour that same water onto a sponge, the sponge will absorb most of it before any runoff occurs.
Common Misconceptions About Water Flow on Slopes
A common misconception among homeowners is that if their house is situated on a hill or slope, rainwater and groundwater will automatically flow downhill, away from their home. However, the soil around your home complicates this assumption. Unlike a solid surface, soil—especially the soil right next to your home—acts more like a sponge.
The Role of Soil in Water Absorption
When your home was constructed, the foundation was dug out, and the space around it was backfilled with loose soil. This backfilled soil is not as compacted as the undisturbed soil surrounding it, making it more absorbent. When it rains, this loose soil is the first to soak up water. Runoff only occurs when the soil has absorbed all the water it can handle; until then, the water saturates the loose soil around your home like a sponge.
Why Effective Water Management is Essential
For rainwater to flow downhill effectively, the area around your home would need to be solid and impermeable. However, because your house is surrounded by what is essentially a clay sponge, your basement is naturally prone to flooding. That’s why an effective water management system is crucial—without a sump pump and proper drainage, your basement is likely to become wet.
Professional Waterproofing Solutions for Your Basement
At Mid-State Basement Systems, we recommend that all homeowners invest in a professional basement waterproofing system. Our experts will assess the soil, the landscape around your home, and your basement to design a customized waterproofing solution. This system will include a perimeter drainage system connected to a high-powered sump pump, ensuring that water is effectively directed away from your basement. A dry basement contributes to a more comfortable and healthier home for you and your family.
