Hey everyone, I'm dealing with a leaking issue in my unfinished basement in Calgary, AB. We've had an unusual amount of rainfall this summer, and I've noticed dampness under my desk, which is right below a below-grade window. Initially, I thought it was just my socks getting wet, but then I caught a musty smell. After moving things around, I found a dark spot under my carpet and discovered that the wood and insulation around the window sill are quite wet, especially after removing the vapor barrier. I've also realized that I have a downspout right by this window, which, when unextended, dumps water near the foundation. I missed extending it during a recent storm, and I'm wondering if that could be the problem. What do you think? Do I need to replace the window, install a splash block, or think about adding drainage solutions to prevent this? Any advice would be super appreciated! Thanks!
1 Answer
It sounds like you've got a couple of potential issues! First, check if your window well has any drains or if there's a perimeter drain outside. Those can help prevent water from pooling. As for the downspout, I definitely recommend extending it further away from the house. You might also want to seal off that opening at the curve where water might spill out. Adding a splash block can also be a smart move to redirect water away from the foundation. Keep an eye on your window too, just in case it needs adjustments!
I dug down in the window well corners and didn’t find a drain, but I didn’t hit gravel either. Do you think a splash block will work? Seems like the window isn’t the main issue, but the well flooding instead?