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Not tending to a damp basement can trigger big problems for homeowners. Aside from creating an unpleasant musty smell, damp basements can harm the structural integrity of your home, leaving you vulnerable to expensive repairs. Let’s have a look at damp basement solutions.
If you notice a leak or experience flooding, don’t ignore the problem in your basement. Instead, be on the lookout for warning signs of water damage so you can address them right away. Stay with us to learn why damp basements are problematic – and what you can do about them.
Watch for Signs of a Problem
Since basements sit beneath the ground, saturated soil and excess moisture are constant threats. And if water seeps into your foundation, that opens the doors to a host of structural issues.
You’ll want to be vigilant so you can catch these problems early and take action before it’s too late. Watch for signs like:
- Foundation Settling: Heavy rainfall can contribute to soil erosion, which means that soil levels around your foundation will move. Consequently, your home’s floors could shift or crack, as could your walls. And those cracks are an invitation for more water to enter, which will weaken the integrity of your foundation.
- Stubborn Doors and Windows: Have you noticed that your doors and windows won’t close properly? This is a telltale sign that moisture has caused your foundation or walls to move. The wood or materials in your door and window frames may swell due to water. Similarly, if you have exposed wood beams or other structural elements in your basement, they are at risk of rotting and weakening if damp.
- Mold and Mildew Growth: If your basement remains damp, expect mold and mildew to spread on your walls and floors. You’ll end up with tainted air quality that could cause problems for individuals with asthma or other respiratory sensitivities.
- Leaning Walls: Watch for basement walls that look like they’re bowing, as this could mean water pressure is building up around the foundation. Too much heavy, damp soil around the foundation can cause the walls to shift inward.
- Visible Stains: If you notice water stains on the walls or ceilings, that’s the clearest indication you have a problem. You may notice a musty smell, too. These are signs you should pursue exterior basement waterproofing.
What to Do as a Homeowner
Don’t delay action if you suspect that your basement’s dampness is a problem. Otherwise, you risk compromising your home’s structural integrity. These are some critical steps you can take to get started:
- Inspect Your Home Regularly: Each month, walk around your basement looking for signs of moisture, like cracks. Take pictures of standing water or stains, and try to identify the source of any problems.
- Look Around Your Home: The ground around your home should angle away from the foundation. This helps prevent water from pooling near the foundation so your foundation is less likely to encounter it.
- Keep Your Eye on Cracks: Track any cracks on walls or floors, noting their size and location. Take pictures and check to see if they are expanding. You may even want to use a pencil to lightly mark their length as a point of comparison. If you notice any expansion, you could have a problem.
- Add a Dehumidifier: Placing a dehumidifier in your basement keeps moisture levels at bay. This can help prevent mold growth and improve air quality, as well.
- Get a Professional Inspection: When in doubt, hire a home inspector to evaluate the structural integrity of your basement. They can look at support means, walls, and other elements and recommend solutions, if needed.
Seek Basement Waterproofing Solutions
You don’t want a situation where ongoing water and moisture threaten your basement – and, by extension, your home’s structural soundness. Wise homeowners should consider waterproofing measures, such as:
- Introducing a Sump Pump: A sump pump can be installed in the basement to clear out water. When water reaches a certain level, the pump is triggered to start removing it. If you live in a region that gets a lot of rain, this device can be essential.
- Basement Waterproofing: Adding a waterproof sealant on basement walls can help keep water from seeping into your foundation. Sealants build a layer that resists water so leaks are less likely.
- Addressing Gutters and Downspouts: Make a point of cleaning gutters and downspouts at least twice each year. Remove debris, like dead leaves and twigs, to keep them from getting clogged. And ensure that downspouts move away from the foundation so water from rainfall does, too.
Take Action to Preserve Your Basement
Failing to tackle a damp basement can cause irreparable damage to your home’s structure. Look for warning signs, such as water stains and foundation cracks, that could mean you need to act quickly.
When you’re observant and routinely monitor your basement, you can uncover problems before they grow into bigger ones. Consider waterproofing your basement or seeking professional services to keep your home secure.