Oct
23

The Top Causes of Basement Leaks in Vancouver Homes (and How to Fix Them)


New home owner. Basement leaking. : r/HomeBasements are a common source of stress for Vancouver homeowners — especially with the city’s constant rainfall and clay-heavy soil.
At Aftermath Contracting, we’ve seen it all: from tiny cracks that let in a trickle to full-blown floods after a winter storm.


Why Basements Leak


The biggest culprits are often small, invisible issues that worsen over time:




  • Cracks in the foundation caused by soil pressure or aging concrete.




  • Poor exterior drainage where downspouts or grading push water toward the home.




  • Clogged perimeter drains, which are common in older Burnaby and North Vancouver homes.




  • Improper sealing during initial construction — especially in homes built before modern waterproofing standards.




Warning Signs to Watch For




  • Musty smell or damp air




  • Small puddles after rain




  • Efflorescence (white powdery deposits on walls)




  • Peeling paint or rust on basement fixtures




How to Fix It




  • Apply interior sealants for minor moisture issues.




  • Reseal foundation cracks with hydraulic cement.




  • Install a sump pump for high water tables.




  • Get professional exterior waterproofing for long-term protection.




Aftermath Contracting offers full basement waterproofing and moisture control across Vancouver, Coquitlam, and Burnaby. We find the root cause, not just the symptom — saving homeowners from major repairs down the road.



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