Understanding Hydrostatic Pressure

In the Bay Area and Marin County, heavy rains and poor drainage can create hydrostatic pressure – the force of water in the soil pushing against your foundation. Over time, this hidden stress can cause costly damage.

Common warning signs:

• Horizontal cracks in basement or foundation walls

• Damp spots or water leaks

• Bowing walls or uneven floors

• Efflorescence (white powdery residue)

How to protect your home:

• Install French drains to redirect water away from the foundation

• Apply exterior waterproofing to block moisture

• Use interior drainage systems and sump pumps for extra protection

• Maintain gutters and grading to keep water flowing away from your property

A licensed drainage expert in the Bay Area can inspect your home, identify risks, and provide long-term solutions to prevent water damage.

Drainage Moisture Control Inc. has the experience and licensing to keep your foundation safe year-round in Novato, Marin County, and across the Bay Area.

Effective Ways to Control Hydrostatic Pressure
Tackling hydrostatic pressure means addressing both water intrusion and structural concerns in a coordinated way. Here are proven methods to help safeguard your foundation from this hidden hazard:

• Interior Drainage Solutions – A perimeter drain system, such as our advanced basement drainage channels, captures incoming water and directs it to a sump pump, ensuring your basement or crawl space stays dry.

• Exterior Waterproof Barriers – Applying a high-quality waterproof membrane on the outside of foundation walls creates a shield that blocks water from seeping through.

• Sump Pump Systems – Dependable sump pumps remove excess water before it can cause pressure buildup, protecting your home’s structure.

• Foundation Wall Stabilization – For walls that show bowing, cracks, or shifting, installing anchors or reinforcement systems can restore stability and prevent worsening damage.

• Grading & Drainage Upgrades – Improving the slope of the soil around your home and adding drainage features like extended downspouts or French drains helps redirect water away from your foundation, reducing hydrostatic pressure risks.