The white substance on your walls is called efflorescence. This is the breakdown of the bonding agent used to hold your foundation together. The water that is penetrating the foundation is breaking the bonding agent down. Learn more by reading this article.

Basements can leak for various reasons. The weeping tile that surrounds most homes could be plugged, causing water to build up around the house. The foundation may need to be water-proofed, stopping any water from penetrating the concrete or block wall. Or you could have cracks in the foundation wall letting water into the basement.

Water seeping through a foundation can cause cracking, bulging, foundation deterioration and health issues. Severe mould can buildup causing problems for those with allergies and respiratory problems.

Buying a home with a wet basement can be risky, but it’s not necessarily a dealbreaker. Assess the severity of the issue and consider potential repair costs before making your decision. Here’s an article that provides more information.

Yes. Under certain circumstances you could do an interior repair. This is typically by either a crack injection or an interior perimeter tile system. Our belief is that an exterior repair is always best, where possible. An exterior repair stops the water from ever touching the bare foundation wall. Where an interior repair allows the water to penetrate the wall then redirects it to an interior drainage system. Here’s an article that provides more information.

Yes. Make sure you have proper grading away from the house. Soil around the house should not come above the brick line. Downspouts and sump discharge lines should be directed away from the house. Here’s an article that provides more information.