[jfarmer4]

Every time it rains a lot we have water that seaps in to our sunken den under our hearth and under our back door. At times this can be a lot of water. We have put french drains in but have NOT been able to stop this water. I don't even know who to speak with. Can anybody give me a idea of at least who to talk to??

Thanks

[talaniman]

You may have to see about installing a drainge pump system,and yes it is expensive.:cool:

[jfarmer4]

I hope not. I would hate to have a sump pumb in my den. I am hopeing someone will know who I should call to see about sealing the leak.

[Lotta]

Could you post a photo of the chimney and the roof area?

[labman]

Is your lot properly graded so the ground slopes away from the house? That is the first step even if it means cutting a swale from the high side to the low. You may still have to put in a sump pump. It might be possible to put it in an adjoining part of the house or even outside. As long as you have a drain running from the den to the pump, it should work.

[skiberger]

Any alterations done outside around these areas that might have disturbed the drain tile along the footers? Is this water entering under the door threshold? If so, seal under the door and where the walkway meets the door.
At the hearth area, if the water is coming in where the concrete floor meets the hearth, try sealing with some hydrolic cement.
If all else fails, like the others mentioned, you may need a waterproofing system.
Don't look a this as a negative. Just about all installations are guaranteed for life and help w/ the resale of your house.
A good company will know how to conceal the pump pit.