Just getting started

[Kelly]

Hello. I live in Northwest Indiana (half hour from Chicago) in a home that was built in 1943. Cinderblock basement foundation. Like others posting on this forum, I deal with seepage on a semi-regular basis. (So do my neighbors.) It appears to come from one corner, in particular, unless there's been a heavy rain, and then it comes in from several spots. I've tested my gutters, and I keep an eye on my downspouts. This summer, I made some adjustments to the grading around the corner where the seepage starts. That didn't seem to help. I sense there are some other things going on, but I'm not sure what. I have no outdoor (cellar) entrance to the basement. Would you suggest some first steps to take? (FYI: Five to ten inches of snow have accumulated, and brutally cold temperatures have frozen the ground underneath. I won't have easy access to the soil for awhile.) Thank you for your time.

[JacobPM]

Hi Kelly - Hope you're staying warm at least :-)

First: We have friends in that area that would help you directly please let me know if you'd like their contact information.

On to the problem:

Cinder block foundations are always tricky. They're basically Legos bound together with mortar. Because of this there are gaps between each piece, rather than the normal 3-gap problem in poured concrete foundations.

The Cinder Blocks can absorb water, just like normal concrete, but faster because it's more porous. The center of the blocks typically have 2 large gaping structural holes where dirt and other fun things can find themselves if the blocks weren't filled back up with concrete (which is now common practice, but back in the 40s it wasn't).

A few possible issues:
1.) The blocks are filled with water saturated soil. When it rains the water from the outside could find its way in and push the water already trapped in the block out.

2.) There’s a mortar break down between the blocks. This is a straight shot from outside to inside.

Have a look at the joints between the blocks, make note of any cracks or separations that are visible, make note of where you typically see the water coming in, and then call a professional to have a look at it.

[Kelly]

I appreciated the mini-inservice on the attributes of cinder block. Thanks for sharing so many details.

I have an appointment scheduled this week with a local contractor and would like to get the name of your affiliate as well for a second opinion.

Again, it was kind of you to supply me with so much "structural information."
Kelly

[JacobPM]

I'm glad that my information helped so much.

Its important for homeowners not to be overwhelmed with terms and talk when the simple fact of many foundations leaking are rather simple.

I sent you a private message.

[stevea]

Hi Kelly,

I would contact Pat Donlea from Durashield, Inc. from Barrington IL. He will be able to help you.