Stopping Basement Leaks When It Rains: A Waterproofing Success in Fairfax, VA

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    The Challenge: Recurring Basement Leaks During Rainstorms

    A damp basement caused by leaks when it rains in Ashburn, VA, with visible signs of foundation vulnerability.

    Sanko’s home in Fairfax, VA, faced a pressing issue: basement leaks when it rained.  The leaks left the basement unusable and raised serious concerns about the foundation’s stability.

    Concerned about long-term structural issues, they reached out to LUX Foundation Solutions for a permanent waterproofing solution.

    During the inspection, the Sankos asked, “Is it normal to have water in the basement after heavy rain?” While occasional moisture might occur in older homes, the LUX team identified key contributing factors to their basement situation, including:

    Inadequate Drainage: Poor water management led to pooling near the foundation.

    Foundation Damage Risks: Prolonged moisture exposure weakened the foundation, increasing the likelihood of cracks or settling.

    Outdated Sump Pump: The old sump pump could not manage heavy rain effectively, leaving the home at risk during storms.

    After thoroughly inspecting the site, the LUX team developed a tailored waterproofing plan designed to eliminate water intrusion and protect the foundation.

    The Solution: Tailored Basement Waterproofing with Sump Pump Installation

    To resolve the Sankos’s problem of a leaky basement after heavy rain, LUX Foundation Solutions implemented a comprehensive basement waterproofing system, ensuring long-term protection against future leaks. Our process included:

    Step 1: Installing an Interior Drainage System

    The team removed a 10-inch-wide section of the concrete slab along the foundation walls to access problem areas. A trench was excavated, and an under-slab 10′ basement drain was installed to redirect water away from the foundation efficiently.

    Step 2: Upgrading to a High-Capacity Sump Pump

    A new sump pit was installed in the basement as part of the waterproofing system. The process began with removing concrete and soil in the designated sump location and installing a new sump pump with an airtight lid. 

    The LUX team installed a Zoeller ProPack, a complete assembly featuring a 1/3 HP primary pump and a secondary pump with a battery backup for uninterrupted operation during power outages.

    Step 3: French Drain Discharge Line Installation

    A French drain line was installed and connected to the sump pump, effectively routing water away from the foundation. The discharge line extended approximately 10–12 feet from the foundation and was buried to connect to the French drain, safely directing water into the garden. 

    This setup was designed to maximize drainage efficiency, prevent water pooling, and provide long-term water management in the basement.

    Step 4: Restoring the Basement Concrete

    Finally, once the drainage system was in place, all removed sections of concrete were replaced and carefully restored, ensuring a flush, seamless finish that matched the existing slab.


    The Outcome: A Dry, Protected Basement Built to Last

    CrackedUnusable basement visible signs of foundation vulnerability before waterproofing solutions in Alexandria, VA. and bowed basement walls caused by soil pressure before foundation wall anchors installation in Stephens City, VA. A waterproofed basement with a drainage system, sump pump, and French drain to stop basement leaks when it rains in Winchester, VA.

    Waterproofing the Sankos’ basement not only resolved their immediate concerns but also provided long-term protection against future rain-induced issues. By addressing the root causes of water intrusion with durable solutions, the LUX Foundation Solutions team restored the functionality and safety of their home.

    Dry, Usable Basement:  The interior drainage system and sump pump work together to eliminate leaks, even during heavy rainstorms.
    Long-Term Foundation Protection: The French drain system prevents water pooling, safeguarding the foundation from moisture damage.
    Reliable Backup System: The battery-powered sump pump ensures peace of mind during storms and power outages.
    Restored Aesthetics: The repaired concrete maintains the basement’s original appearance and functionality.

    They now enjoy a dry, usable basement and the peace of mind that comes from knowing their foundation is protected. With their home safeguarded long-term, they can confidently face any rainy season without worry.

    Need a Waterproofing Solution? Contact Us Today!

    Basement leaks during heavy rain can cause damp, unusable spaces and threaten your home’s foundation. At LUX Foundation Solutions, we’re experts in solving these challenges for homeowners across Northern Virginia, Shenandoah Valley, North Central Virginia, West Virginia, and surrounding areas.

    Our proven approach combines expert diagnostics with top-quality basement waterproofing services to eliminate water intrusion and protect your home long-term.

    If your basement leaks when it rains, don’t wait for the damage to worsen—contact us today at 540-508-8587 for your free estimate and discover how LUX Foundation Solutions can keep your home safe, dry, and secure.

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