Under Hydrostatic Pressure

If you ever have had water infiltrating your basement, you've most probably experienced the result of hydrostatic pressure. 

But what is actually “hydrostatic pressure”? 

Alright, imagine hydrostatic pressure as the superhero villain for our basement walls! When our foundation is surrounded by soil that's saturated with water, hydrostatic pressure decides to flex its muscles against our walls, which might cause cracks, settlements, or other damage.  

What affects hydrostatic pressure? 

Let's talk about soil... a supporting cast in this drama.  

Sandy soils remain stable when water passes through, but clayey soils have an opposite reaction. They shrink when dry, creating dramatic cracks, and then puff up like a sponge during heavy rain. This clay-soil “rollercoaster” exerts excessive pressure on foundation walls, that can result in the dramatic consequences mentioned above.  

Cold climates also play a considerable role... 

When water transforms into ice, its volume increases by about 10%. This frozen force, known as frost heaving, can put serious pressure on our foundation walls, leading to cracks and other structural issues.  

So, why is hydrostatic pressure a big deal? 

Picture it as water pressure pushing up with stopping against our foundation walls. Concrete will resist until a certain time before letting water inside the basement, thus leading to unwanted cracks, and a settled foundation. 

Here's a twist... 

Unfortunately, we can't simply eliminate hydrostatic pressure, nor escape it. So, the only option is to find a way to neutralize its effect. 

Waterproofing is our trusty weapon. Sump pumps and drainage systems will redirect seeping water outside of the house and away from the walls. In the end, it's a never-ending battle against hydrostatic pressure, but with the right moves, your basement can be the undisputed champion – dry, safe, and drama-free!