Sil plate seepage refers to water that comes running over the top of the foundation wall. Of all seepage types over the top may be the least common but it is a straightforward method of repair.
Potential Causes:
Some common factors that cause over the top seepage include:
- Landscaping issues: If the ground around the foundation slopes towards the house instead of away from it, water runoff can collect near the walls and eventually spill over the top of the foundation wall. Another common cause is exterior soil height. If the dirt on the outside of your home is higher than the top of your foundation wall it can very easily find its way in through the top mortar joint of your foundation wall.
- Damaged or Inadequate Gutters: Faulty gutters or downspouts can channel water directly towards the foundation, increasing the risk of seepage.
What you can do:
- Improve Exterior Drainage: Ensure proper grading around your home, sloping the landscape away from the foundation.
- Install or repair gutters and downspouts to direct water away from the walls.
What we can do:
- Install a membrane to seal out any water build up. Different situations call for different types of sealant materials. Traditionally the best option we opt for is to apply a layer of cold tar or liquid rubber over the mortar joint at the top of your foundation wall.
- In some cases regrading a lot is not an option. To ensure the longevity of the membrane we can also install a French drain along the problem wall. A shallow trench filled with a drain tile can redirect water out to a low point in the yard, preventing excess water build up on your foundation wall.
Water seepage over the top of foundation walls is a serious concern that requires prompt attention. If this seepage continuous for an extended period of time it can rot out your homes sill plate and even begin wicking into the floorboards and joists of your floor causing mold. If
