What is Hydrostatic Pressure?

Hydrostatic pressure is a concept you might have heard before since it’s not a term exclusively used in construction. The word “hydro” refers to water, while the word “static” is a synonym for still or motionless. Hydrostatic pressure is a term used to describe the effects large amounts of still water has on objects. When talking about basements specifically, it refers to the effects it has on basement walls and floors. 

• How it Works  

Water is a lot more damaging to your property than you may think. In small quantities, it can cause humidity and mold growth. In large quantities, it can destroy the walls of your basement. This is something that happens all over the country, but it can especially be a problem in states like North Carolina. North Carolina’s soil is mostly expansive, which means it can absorb large amounts of water due to its clay content. 

As the soil absorbs more and more water, it accumulates alongside your basement walls. Eventually, there is so much water pressing against the side of your basement wall that it places a great deal of pressure on the concrete. Concrete walls may seem tough enough to withstand a bit of water pressing against it, but you’d be surprised by how heavy water can be. 

• How it Affects Your Home 

The pressure alongside the basement wall builds up until the wall begins to bend and bow inward. When this happens, your basement is at risk of excessive leaking. Cracks will slowly form along the concrete, spalling and pitting will occur across the surface, the window frame will warp, and water will begin to come in a lot more easily. Things get worse when it rains since surface water adds weight and increases the amount of pressure exerted on the walls. 

If you have a broken sump pump, there will be no way to automatically take care of the flooding caused by hydrostatic pressure. A sump pump that works properly and positive lawn grading are great methods used against the pressure exerted by large amounts of water in your foundation. It depends on the condition of your walls and your foundation, but the effects of hydrostatic pressure don’t occur overnight. Still, it’s important to keep the damage to a minimum and repair sump pumps as soon as possible.