Expert: Bruce E. Johnson - 11/13/2009

Question
QUESTION:  We removed the old support pole for the main beam and reinforced same in the basement.  However, where the old one was cut there is water coming up from in the whole.  Can I pour hydraulic cement in the whole to stop the leak?

ANSWER: Hi Rich, hydraulic cement should do the trick.  There are also some commercial products available through Underground Utility supply stores such as Ferguson and White Cap with names like Stop It and Wet Plug that are hydraulic cement based which will work also.. I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: after removing more of the wall, i discovered that the water is coming from little pits/wholes from around the pole.  Should I cut the concrete around the pole and cut the pole lower than the surface and then fill with the hydraulic concrete?  

Answer
Hi again Rich, you definitely need to remove as much of the post as possible and probably remove the section of concrete that is weeping water..I don't know it sounds like there is a larger issue here.  For water to be pumping up through the slab you must not be getting enough drainage around the foundation perimeter.  A good footing drain will keep the hydrostatic pressure in check and keep the water from "seeking its own level"..Just plugging the hole may work for a while but if there is enough water building up under the slab it will eventually find another place to come up.   I hope this information helps, please feel free to write again regarding this or other matters, sincerely bruce e johnson..bejohnsonconsulting.com