It’s Been a Wet Year: The Basement Edition

I was sitting at my computer late last night when I heard it again… the rain. Again. I thought to myself, gosh, it’s been such a wet year. I reached for my phone. I hadn’t even opened it since I took those pictures earlier in the day. When I finally unlocked the screen, this is what I saw:

That picture says it all—heavy rains, saturated soil, and relentless pressure pushing against basement walls. This year has been rough. I’ve personally seen two complete basement wall collapses already, and the season isn’t over yet.

Why Wet Years Hit Basements Hard

• Soil saturation: When the ground stays soaked, water has nowhere to go.

• Hydrostatic pressure: Water pushes inward against basement walls, sometimes with thousands of pounds of force.

• Drainage overload: Sump pumps and footer drains struggle to keep up when storms keep coming.

Warning Signs Homeowners Notice

• Musty odors or persistent dampness

• Water stains or white chalky efflorescence

• Hairline cracks that widen after storms

• Standing water at the wall-floor seam

• Mold creeping up behind boxes or furniture

Common Missteps People Make

• Thinking “a little moisture” is no big deal

• Relying on waterproof paint as a cure-all

• Forgetting to keep gutters and downspouts clear

• Overlooking maintenance on sump pumps or French drains

Solutions That Actually Work

• Exterior grading & drainage: Swales, downspout extensions, and proper slope keep water moving away.

• Interior systems: Sump pumps, interior drains, and vapor barriers reduce seepage.

• Structural reinforcement: Carbon fiber, steel jacks, or rebuilding damaged sections.

• Best results: A combination of drainage improvements and structural support.

When It’s Time to Call a Pro

• Cracks are spreading or walls are bowing

• Water intrusion keeps returning after storms

• Mold and mildew raise health concerns

• For peace of mind—getting ahead of a collapse is always cheaper than repairing one

Resetting the Clock

Foundation issues come down to two things: pressure and time. The right repairs reduce that pressure and buy your home decades of stability.

Don’t wait for the next storm cycle. Get your basement checked now and reset the clock before small problems turn into emergencies.

Ready to protect your basement?

Don’t wait for the next heavy rain to test your foundation. Call Wright Floor Leveling & Masonry today at 580-762-9097 or visit www.wrightfloorleveling.com to schedule your inspection. Protect your home now—before small leaks turn into costly repairs.