Water intrusion happens when water gets in through the building envelope — windows, doors, roofs, siding or foundations — rather than from plumbing inside. It is often slow, repeated and hidden.
Because intrusion tends to recur with each storm, cleanup focuses on finding how far moisture has spread, drying it out and documenting the entry point so it can be repaired by the right trade.
Common causes
- Failed window and door seals
- Ice dams and roof flashing leaks
- Cracked foundation walls
- Poor lot grading or blocked downspouts
Warning signs
- Stains below windows after rain
- Damp drywall on exterior walls
- Water in window wells
- Recurring musty smell after storms
Immediate safety steps
- Place towels or containers to catch active drips.
- Do not climb onto roofs in wet or icy conditions.
- Note when leaks occur (wind direction, heavy rain) to help locate the source.
How our water intrusion cleanup process works
- 1
Locate entry
Inspect the likely entry point and trace moisture paths.
- 2
Assess spread
Use moisture meters and thermal imaging to measure the affected area.
- 3
Remove & dry
Remove saturated materials where needed and dry the cavity.
- 4
Recommend repairs
Document the entry point so a roofer, window installer or waterproofer can fix it.
What to expect when you call
- A clear description of where water appears to be entering
- Drying of affected interior areas
- Honest advice that exterior repairs may be needed to prevent recurrence
Homes and businesses
Residential: Basement walls and window wells are the most common intrusion points in homes.
Commercial: Flat roofs and storefront glazing are frequent sources in commercial buildings.
Water Intrusion Cleanup in Richmond Hill
Wind-driven rain, freeze-thaw cycles and ice damming are common contributors to water intrusion in Richmond Hill properties.
Learn more about the areas we serve in Richmond Hill, or return to the Flood Services Richmond Hill homepage.
Water Intrusion Cleanup FAQs
Do you repair roofs or foundations?
We clean up and dry the interior damage. Exterior repairs such as roofing or foundation waterproofing should be handled by the appropriate contractor.
Why does my leak only happen sometimes?
Intrusion often depends on rain intensity, wind direction or snowmelt, which is why it may only show up in certain storms.
Can slow leaks cause mould?
Yes. Repeated wetting of organic materials can support mould growth over time, so drying and fixing the entry point are both important.