The short answer
Check the Garage Door Seal
The most common entry point is the gap under the garage door. Inspect the rubber seal along the bottom edge. If it is cracked, brittle, or missing sections, water can flow in during heavy rain. Replace the seal with a new one that matches the door width.
Also look at the sides and top of the door. Gaps there allow wind-driven rain to enter. Apply weatherstripping to those edges. For small cracks in the concrete floor, use a concrete caulk that stays flexible. This simple fix often stops most water intrusion.
- Look for daylight under the door
- Run a hose along the door to test
- Replace worn rubber seals
- Caulk gaps at the door frame
- Check the door threshold for cracks
- Clean out the track area
Improve Drainage Around the Foundation
Water pools near the garage when the ground slopes toward the building. Check the grade of the soil next to the foundation. It should slope away from the garage for at least six feet. If not, add fill dirt or topsoil to create a slope that directs water away.
Gutters and downspouts also matter. If they empty right next to the garage, water saturates the soil and seeps through the walls. Extend downspouts with flexible extensions or underground pipes. Make sure the ground drains away from the door, not toward it.
Seal Cracks in the Floor and Walls
Concrete floors and walls can develop cracks over time. These cracks let water seep in, especially during heavy rain or snowmelt. Inspect the garage floor and the lower part of the walls for any visible gaps. Use a concrete crack filler or hydraulic cement to seal them.
Pay attention to the joint where the floor meets the wall. That seam is a common weak point. Apply a waterproof sealant along that line. For larger cracks, you may need to chisel out loose material first. This prevents water from wicking up through the concrete.
Install a Floor Drain or Sump Pump
If your garage is below grade or in a flood-prone area, a floor drain can help. A floor drain sits flush with the concrete and channels water to a drainage system or a sump pit. This requires cutting into the slab, so it is a job for a professional.
A sump pump in a small pit can also remove water that collects. The pump activates when water rises, pushing it out through a discharge pipe. This approach is useful for garages that flood repeatedly. Consult a water damage pro to assess the right solution for your setup.
Act Fast After Water Gets In
Even with prevention, water can still find a way in. The longer water sits, the more damage it does to drywall, flooring, and belongings. Move items off the floor, and use towels or a wet vacuum to remove standing water. Open windows or use fans to dry the space.
If water has soaked into drywall, insulation, or carpet, it may need to be removed to prevent mold. In that case, the pros can extract water and dry the area properly. They can also identify hidden moisture that leads to rot. Act quickly to reduce repair costs.
- Move boxes and furniture to higher ground
- Use a wet vacuum to remove standing water
- Run a dehumidifier to dry the air
- Pull up wet carpet or padding
- Check for soaked drywall or insulation
- Call the pros if damage is extensive
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Layton and nearby communities.
Call Now (801) 383-0232Frequently asked questions
Why does water come under my garage door?
Water under the door usually means the seal is worn or the ground slopes toward the door. Heavy rain can also push water up the driveway. Replace the bottom seal and check that the driveway drains away from the garage. If water still enters, you may need a drain or a raised threshold.
Can I seal my garage floor myself?
Yes, for small cracks you can use concrete crack filler or hydraulic cement. Clean the crack, let it dry, and apply the filler. For large cracks or if water is seeping through the slab, you may need professional help. A water damage pro can assess if the floor needs more extensive repair.
What should I do if my garage floods?
First, ensure it is safe to enter. Turn off electricity if water is near outlets. Remove water with a wet vacuum or pump. Dry the area quickly with fans and dehumidifiers. If water soaked drywall or flooring, contact the pros to extract water and prevent mold. Act quickly to limit damage.