Can Digging Up Plants by House Cause Water in Basement?

Many homeowners enjoy gardening and landscaping their yards to add beauty and value to their property. As a part of this, they may decide to dig up plants that are located near the house to make room for new ones. However, some homeowners have reported that digging up plants near their house has led to water in their basement. This has raised the question, can digging up plants by the house cause water in the basement?

The Root of the Problem

The answer is yes, digging up plants near the house can cause water in the basement. The reason for this is that plants can have extensive root systems that absorb a lot of water from the soil. When these plants are dug up, their roots are no longer there to absorb the water, and it can end up seeping into the basement. In addition, if the soil around the house is already saturated with water, digging up the plants can loosen the soil and allow water to flow more easily into the basement.

Preventing Water in the Basement

Fortunately, there are steps that homeowners can take to prevent water from entering their basement after digging up plants. One option is to install a drainage system around the house that diverts water away from the foundation. This can be done by digging a trench around the perimeter of the house and installing a drain tile system that allows water to flow away from the house. Another option is to ensure that the soil around the house is properly graded so that water flows away from the foundation instead of toward it. This may involve adding soil to create a slope away from the house, or using landscaping features such as retaining walls to redirect water.

When to Seek Professional Help

While installing a drainage system or landscaping features can be effective in preventing water in the basement, there may be cases where professional help is necessary. For example, if the water in the basement is a result of a damaged foundation or a plumbing issue such as a leaky pipe, a professional should be consulted to identify and fix the problem. Additionally, if the soil around the house is extremely saturated with water or if the house is located in an area prone to flooding, specialized solutions may be required to prevent water from entering the basement.

Conclusion

While digging up plants near the house can lead to water in the basement, there are steps that homeowners can take to prevent this from occurring. By installing a drainage system or ensuring that the soil around the house is properly graded, homeowners can reduce the risk of water entering their basement. However, in cases where professional help is necessary, it is important to seek out the expertise of a qualified professional to identify and fix the problem. By taking these steps, homeowners can enjoy their landscaping and gardening projects without having to worry about water in their basement.