The Most Common Causes of Basement Leaks (And How to Fix Them)

If you're a Minnesota homeowner battling a wet basement, you're definitely not alone. With our freeze-thaw cycles, heavy spring snowmelt, and sudden summer storms, basement moisture is a common issue across the state. Whether it’s a small puddle or full-on flooding, basement leaks are more than just a nuisance—they can lead to mold, structural damage, and a big hit to your home's value.

At LTC, we’ve helped countless Minnesota homeowners dry out their basements and keep them that way. In this post, we’ll break down the most common causes of basement leaks—and more importantly, how to fix them.

1. Poor Drainage Around the Foundation

When water doesn’t drain properly away from your home, it tends to find its way into your basement. Gutters that overflow or downspouts that dump water near the foundation can create hydrostatic pressure, pushing water through tiny cracks.

Fix:

Extend your downspouts at least 6 feet from the house, grade your yard to slope away from the foundation, and keep those gutters clean! For a more permanent solution, LTC offers drain tile systems that collect and redirect groundwater before it becomes a problem.

2. Cracks in Foundation Walls or Floors

Even the smallest cracks can become entry points for water—especially during Minnesota’s wet spring season.

Fix:

Seal cracks with waterproof epoxy or polyurethane foam. But if you’re seeing recurring water intrusion, it’s time for a more comprehensive approach. Our baseboard waterproofing systems at LTC can manage water seeping through walls by channeling it discreetly to a sump pump or drain tile system.

3. Hydrostatic Pressure from Groundwater

When the soil around your home becomes saturated, water pressure builds up and pushes against the basement walls and floor. This can force water in through seams, joints, and cracks.

Fix:

The best way to relieve this pressure is with an interior drain tile system. LTC’s drain tile solutions are installed along the perimeter of your basement floor and work with a sump pump to collect and remove water before it causes damage.

4. Failed or Missing Sump Pump

Your sump pump is the heart of your basement waterproofing system. If it fails, water has nowhere to go.

Fix:

Inspect your sump pump regularly, especially before rainy seasons. Consider installing a battery backup system in case of power outages. If your basement doesn’t have a sump pump yet, LTC can help you design and install a custom system that works with our baseboard and drain tile solutions.

5. Leaky Basement Windows or Window Wells

Basement windows are notorious weak points, especially if window wells collect water with nowhere to drain.

Fix:

Seal around windows with waterproof caulk, install clear plastic covers over window wells, and make sure they have proper drainage. If moisture issues persist, combining these fixes with an interior waterproofing system (like LTC’s baseboard channels) provides an extra layer of protection.

Ready to Stop the Leaks?

If you’re seeing signs of water in your basement—moisture, mold, musty smells, or visible leaks—it’s time to take action. Let the experts at LTC assess your basement and recommend a solution that fits your home and budget.

Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and get your basement back to dry and comfortable—just the way it should be.