Wet basements are a common problem, and at some point, every homeowner may have to deal with them. Just because they are common doesn’t mean they are harmless. Wet basements can cause major damage if left unchecked, so you will want to fix them as soon as possible.
While heavy rain and snow are obvious causes, you may be wondering what else causes wet basements. Here are a few common causes.
- An interior water leak
Many wet basements are caused by interior leaks in the home, such as a leaky pipe. The first thing you should do when you notice water in your basement is to check for a leak. This can come from anywhere in the home. Some examples include the sink, dishwasher, shower, toilet, or washing machine. Sometimes the leak may be from a pipe inside the wall.
If you notice that the water in your basement is on the ceiling or on the walls that are under a kitchen or bathroom, then the most likely cause is an interior water leak.
The first thing you need to do to fix your wet basement caused by a leak is to have a plumber fix the leak. This may fix the problem completely.
- Cracks in the foundation
If there are any cracks in your home’s foundation, then water has a chance to enter your basement. This occurs when water in the soil is not directed away from the foundation. As a result, the water will accumulate against the walls and that pressure will force the water into the wall and form cracks. In some cases, the water may have caused the cracks.
- Gutters or downspouts that are defective
Gutters and downspouts are designed to direct water away from your home. If they are functioning improperly, for example, if they are blocked by leaves, then the water will drain towards your house. It can then build up in the soil and find its way into the basement.
If you do not have gutters or downspouts, consider adding them. Clean all existing gutters and downspouts regularly.
If you see the warning signs of wet basements, such as wet spots, puddles, cracks, or condensation, then you do not want to ignore it. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that you will have a bigger problem later, which will lead to costlier repairs. Find out how you can prevent this problem with basement waterproofing.
Contact the Professionals at Everdry Waterproofing of Greater Grand Rapids Today! (866) 776-5134

Rob VanSuilichem
Serving Michigan homeowners for over 32 years, Everdry is one of the Nation’s largest and most experienced waterproofer.
Locally owned, operated and staffed, Everdry professionals take a personal one-on-one approach in educating homeowners so they truly understand all their options for creating a safe, dry, healthy and usable space in their basements.
What Sets Us Apart
- Unbeatable quality due to the experience of the owners and staff.
- Unbeatable value due to the efficiency and expertise of more than 32 years of experience.
- Unbeatable value due to the purchasing power of being one of the largest waterproofers in the nation.
- Unbeatable service due to the fact that EverDry is a locally owned and operated company.
Credentials Include:
- Members of the Home Builders Association
- H.U.D. evaluated
- I.C.C. evaluated (Report #94-07)
- Better Business Bureau Accredited with the Eastern and Western Michigan BBB
- Fully Licensed and Insured
The aforementioned memberships are important because we benefit from the constant exchange of information and knowledge. We are updated on everything from installation techniques, to customer service improvements. You benefit in the knowledge that these third party inspection agencies require us to meet stringent requirements to remain members in good standing.
Better Business Bureau
We have been nominated and won the prestigious Better Business Bureau’s Torch Award for Ethics many times, Chosen as a W.Mich.BBB Torch finalist in 2014 & 2015, Won the Torch Award for Ethics in 2016, Won the Eastern Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2019 and was also chosen as a Western Michigan BBB Torch finalist in 2019. Won the Eastern Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2023 and Finalist for the Western Michigan BBB Torch Award in 2020 & 2021!
Mission Statement
To create raving fans of our customers and employees through frequent contact, constant training, a commitment to excellence and unlimited opportunity.

