MORE LOCATIONSUnderstanding Tie Rod Leaks: Causes and Solutions
If you’ve noticed water seeping into your basement through small, round spots on your foundation walls, you might be dealing with tie rod leaks. These leaks occur when the tiny holes left behind by tie rods during construction allow moisture to enter your home. In areas like New England, where heavy rains and fluctuating weather are common, tie rod leaks can lead to bigger problems. Keep reading to understand what tie rod leaks are and how to fix them.
What Are Tie Rod Leaks?
- Tie rod leaks are water entry points in your basement that result from small holes left behind after steel rods are removed from concrete foundations during construction. These leaks are more common in older homes.
The steel rods, known as tie rods, are used to stabilize concrete forms during construction, and once removed, they leave behind holes. Over time, these patched areas can weaken due to shifting ground or weather changes, making it easier for water to seep in.
Signs to Watch For
- While most homes use tie rods during construction, newer homes often use snap ties, which don’t cause the same issues. If your home has tie rod holes in the foundation, it’s important to address them, especially if you notice signs of water damage.
Leaking tie rod holes may show up as small stains, about the size of a coin, on the inside of your basement walls or as water lines that extend down to the floor. In more severe cases, water can pool or flood your basement. Typically, an exterior wall has 5 to 8 tie rods, and water damage may appear in distinct lines where the tie rods are located.
Why Does This Happen?
- During construction, many homes have small metal rods, known as tie rods, inserted into the concrete forms to hold the inner and outer molds together while the concrete is poured. These rods are spaced around 18 inches apart, sometimes in two rows. After the concrete is set, the rods are usually removed, leaving behind holes. Builders may attempt to seal these holes using hydraulic cement and a coating, but over time, this can wear off, leaving the holes exposed and vulnerable to water intrusion.
Water naturally takes the path of least resistance, and these tie rod holes, being hollow, provide an easy route for water to enter. This is why the issue is so common. Once water finds its way in, it can end up in your basement. Crack X has a range of solutions to address tie rod hole leaks, whether it’s just one leak or an entire wall. The process is usually simple and cost-effective, involving the application of high-quality sealant injections to seal the holes. If there are more extensive waterproofing concerns, Crack X can assess and offer both interior and exterior waterproofing solutions to ensure water never reaches your basement again.
Importance of Professional
- Properly addressing tie rod leaks through professional waterproofing is crucial for ensuring long-term protection. Without the right solution, water can infiltrate your basement, leading to structural damage, mold growth, and costly flooding. A seemingly small issue, tie rod leaks are one of the most common entry points for water in basements.
These tiny holes in your foundation may appear minor, but they can quickly turn into a significant problem if left untreated. Crack X offers expert waterproofing solutions to tackle basement and foundation dampness effectively. Our comprehensive services provide the peace of mind that your home will stay dry and protected, preventing further damage and ensuring a safer, healthier environment.
If you notice signs of water leaks, seek immediate professional help. Call us at 877-727-2259. Our experts at Crack-X will inspect your property and take the necessary measures to fix your leaking pipes. Crack-X is a civil structures repair company operating in Maine and New Hampshire.