Replies

1. 
   DanH | Aug 01, 2019 07:49am | #1

   Do you have gutters? Do the downspouts have extensions? Does the soil slope away from the house?

1. 
   smitch | Aug 01, 2019 01:22pm | #3

   I really been all over this and know my situation. I can appreciate going over the familiar causes etc. but I really asked a specific question. Yes gutters above, cleaned all within a month or so, added soil sloped against house extending 3 to 4 feet with underlayer of dense landscape fabric (glue affixed to brick) and one on top that seems to repel water. Suspect water may come from small foundation crack fixed about 35-40 years ago. To prove out I decided to pull all paneling and moisture barrier and see if water runs down wall anywhere pointing to other issue possibly with siding/roofing. The problem however pre-existed those modifications.

2. 
   DanH | Aug 01, 2019 07:51am | #2

   Oh, and is there a water main up the street that is cracked and has been leaking for 30 years?

1. 
   smitch | Aug 01, 2019 01:24pm | #4

   Ok..
   How would anyone confirm that?
   The issue I'm trying to explore is WHERE is the entry point into the house.

3. 
   cheyward | Aug 01, 2019 03:38pm | #5

   I'm with smitch..... all he's asking for is who does he contact with the right qualifications to figure out the issue. I too am having the same issue and in need of a qualified expert, not really asking for repair advice. Already tried the usual
   recommended first steps.

1. 
   smitch | Aug 04, 2019 12:46pm | #7

   I realized the most sensible approach for me at this time. These answers are all off the mark! My original concern was with new roofing & siding work if they were the cause that would be beyond my ability to assess. I've proceeded to leave that to once eliminating other causes I can address. I've proceeded to fully expose a known foundation crack by removal of all paneling. I then had gutter overhead assessed although it was recently cleaned. Clogged!. Had that cleaned up, cut back some tree branches that are roof high to reduce that issue. I will fix the foundation crack. Watch following some intense rains. Re-assess If that crack is not an issue, and I can point to where water entry is made elsewhere, then I will seek further expertise. I may inquire with builders. I've heard of Master Builders. That's the only possibly appropriate lead I've got. Good luck!

4. 
   florida | Aug 01, 2019 08:12pm | #6

   I think my first stop would be a waterproofing company. They deal with the practicalities of basement leaks every day.

5. 
   johny5 | Aug 06, 2019 04:40am | #8

   You can diagnose the basement water using several signs and they are namely
   Efflorescence, Mold and Mildew, Wet or Rotting Wood, Rust Stains, Water Seepage etc.

6. 
   suburbanguy | Aug 06, 2019 08:03pm | #9

   I'd advise searching for someone/firm with a specific "building science" education/expertise. An engineer might be able to assist you but their education is directed toward structural matters--loads, deflections, etc.

7. 
   user-7516040 | Aug 08, 2019 05:38am | #10

   You can recognise the basement water by seeing wall cracks and floor cracks. In fact, you can diagnose the basement water using Rust Stains as well as Mold and Mildew.

8. 
   cheyward | Aug 11, 2019 01:35pm | #11

   Mine is a finished basement. It did have carpet but not anymore.

9. 
   thomas_uzumaki | Aug 12, 2019 04:40am | #12

   can you share the pictures? we may diagnose the problem and help you find the concern person for solving it

10. 
    Nick1915 | Aug 12, 2019 06:41pm | #13

    How much water are you getting in the basement? What kind of foundation do you have?
    How old is the building? Where is the house located? What are the characteristics of the site? Post some photos showing the building relative to the site. Post some photos showing the condition of the basement. Are there other houses nearby? Do they have a similar problem? Have you observed the water entering the building?