Overhang Test

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The Overhang Test is a straightforward, hands-on way to determine if your basement has water seepage problems. First, clear everything out of the lowest shelf on the wall so you can see behind it. Then, fill an empty plastic container with water and pour it slowly into the gap between the concrete wall and the slab until the space is full but not overflowing. Next, wait at least 24 hours to allow any water to seep into the basement through cracks or holes in the foundation. After that time has passed, use a sponge or towel to remove as much of the remaining water from the container as you can. You'll need to do this carefully so you don't splash water onto the walls. Now, measure the amount of water left in the container and write down the reading on your bucket gauge. If there is no water left at all, that's a good sign - it means your basement has a tight seal around its foundation and should be dry. However, if you find some water remaining, don't panic just yet! It might simply mean that your house settlement was uneven during construction or that the foundation isn't level. But if there is still a significant amount of water after 24 hours have passed, it could indicate more serious issues such as cracks in the walls or floors. In any case, the Overhang Test can give you a clear idea about whether your basement has water seepage problems and what steps need to be taken next.