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Moisture in Basement

Moisture in basements can be a common source of problems. Unchecked moisture can lead to mold growth, musty odors and even wood rot if left uncontrolled.

Visual inspection may give us clues of high humidity levels, while a hygrometer or moisture meter gives a more precise reading. A simple test involves covering one wall with plastic wrap and checking after 24 to 48 hours for dampness.

Water Damage

Standing water or water stains on basement walls or floors is an indicator that there may be moisture issues in your space, while musty smells or mold can also indicate moisture issues.

Plumbing leaks can also contribute to basement moisture issues, often from improper installation or pipe corrosion. To ensure maximum comfort, it's advisable to have your plumbing systems checked regularly and repaired when necessary.

Rainwater or melting snow that doesn't drain away from the home can seep into basements through porous soil or through gaps in walls and footings, leading to flooding of basements. Be sure your gutters and surface grading is directed away from foundation to ensure it does not enter.

Sump pumps can be an effective tool in fighting basement moisture; however, these pumps may fail if not powered electrically or equipped with battery backup. A basement dehumidification system may help regulate humidity and suppress mold and mildew growth while waterproofing systems offer another means to eliminate moisture in your space.

Condensation

Moisture in basements is an annoying but preventable problem that shouldn't cause alarm. Moisture usually comes from two sources - indoor humidity condensing on cold surfaces like basement walls (similar to when water droplets form on an iced tea glass in humid weather) or exterior runoff seeping through porous basement and crawl space walls and then evaporating into them, like running off water from rainstorms soaking through porous basement walls and then evaporating.

Runoff water from heavy rainfall or melting snow that is not diverted away from your home can saturate soil near its foundation and enter through cracks, creating pools around your foundation that seep into it through leakage points or through porous walls, leaving behind efflorescence stains on concrete or other materials.

Condensation can be reduced by having plumbers repair any leaky pipes, installing exhaust fans in bathrooms and kitchens, and making sure ducts vent outside. Dehumidification may also help, though this won't necessarily address the cause of moisture in your basement.

Mold

Basements provide ideal conditions for mold growth. As mold feeds off organic materials in a basement, it feeds off structural support wood that holds your home up, leading to structural problems. In addition, mold contamination contaminates air supply resulting in itchy eyes, nose and throat; it could even trigger allergies if they appear. If allergies flare up frequently in a particular basement room, mold could be to blame!

Mold spores are present everywhere and thrive in humid environments, where they can spread through air vents and open windows into every corner of your home - even your HVAC system and furnace!

Your basement moisture levels can be controlled by installing washable floor surfaces or area rugs instead of carpeting, which holds and traps water, creating an ideal breeding ground for mold growth. If you keep plants in the basement, make sure they don't become overwatered and use pots that allow good ventilation. Increasing temperature will also help decrease humidity and condensation; dehumidifiers as well as proper venting of exhaust fans may help alleviate this issue further.

Mildew

An unheated basement provides the ideal breeding ground for mildew, which thrives on organic materials like wood. Mold and mildew also thrive on uninsulated pipes; visible rot on their exterior indicates moisture as does pooled or trickling water on basement walls.

Moisture issues often stem from runoff in the soil making its way inside of homes. Gutter systems that divert excess rainfall and melting snow away from foundations may help mitigate moisture problems; additionally, regrading soil so it slopes downward away from it can also aid in this regard.

Dehumidifiers can remove excess moisture from the air, helping reduce condensation rates and creating a drier environment that won't support mold or mildew growth. Ventilation fans in baths and kitchens should be properly sized and vented outside, while sump pumps can help clear away water that collects in basements.

Moisture in the basement can be a persistent problem for homeowners, causing damage and potentially affecting the overall energy efficiency of the house. But fear not, there is a solution! In our Ultimate Guide to Basement Wall Insulation, we cover everything you need to know to effectively insulate your basement walls and create a complete solution for enhanced energy efficiency. Don't let moisture take control of your basement any longer, discover the ultimate solution today!

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Originally published: 

January 27, 2024

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Justin Ankus

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