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Leaking above windows in basement - sill plate

2K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  jomama45 
#1 ·
the warranty for the basement waterproofing was transferred when we bought our house( it was built in 1978). We noticed water above the windows and called them. They said it was the sill plate (?) and that our warranty does not cover that. They said we need to dig out around the foundation and seal the sill plate because it is below grade. What is the approx. cost and would it not be covered by the waterproofing company? The basement walls look good, not warped but the wood area above the windows where the joists (?) meet the foundation are wet in areas and dark (possibly mold). Also noted that insulation in that area is also dark in areas.
 
#2 ·
First, it is most unusual to have the sillplate below grade. That is poor construction. Not sure what to avise, pics might help us.

If the sill plate is below grade, the grade should be changed, but that is not practical, depending on drainage around the foundation. This is a DIY website, but this may not be a DIY job.
 
#3 ·
I agree, the wood floor joists, rim board, sill plate, etc... should never be below grade, unless they were prepared for such which they obviously were't if it's leaking.

The reason the bsmnt. waterproofing co. isn't covering the leakage is because the leakage is not occurring IN the foundation, but instead in the first floor. Sounds like you need to do some serious re-grading work outside.
 
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