One common problem that homeowners face is water in the basement. A damp or watery basement can cause all sorts of trouble, from damaged internal structures to expensive home foundation repairs. The basement is the room most prone to water damage, and keeping water out can be a real pain. However, knowing what causes water in the basement and how to prevent it can help homeowners protect their property from the damaging effects of water.
List of Problems and Solutions
Here are some of the most common causes of water in the basement and easy solutions:
Leaks
Problem: Basement leaks can lead to extensive damage, and unfortunately the source of the problem can be hard to locate. Leaks can be caused by malfunctioning gutters, internal pipe bursts and water that pools around the foundation of the home.
Solution: To fix basement leaks, clean out gutters regularly to make sure that they are draining properly, and ensure that gutter pipes are pointed away from the house. To keep water from gathering around the foundation, clear snow and melting ice away from the home’s exterior. Basement window well covers can also help to ensure that water doesn’t build up around the exterior of a home.
Cracks
Problem: Cracks in basement walls, windows, doors and floors are another common cause of a wet basement. Cracks that are left unattended to can grow over time, letting even more water in and causing more interior water damage.
Solution: Keep an eye out for any noticeable cracks and fill them in right away. Small cracks in basement walls can be fixed by applying a concrete sealant. As cracks get bigger, it is a good idea to call a waterproofing expert to fix the problem to ensure the issue is taken care of properly.
Condensation
Problem: Condensation in the basement can cause a number of problems, and when it is not taken care of it can lead to the growth of hazardous mold within the home. This issue is most common in the summer when the air inside the basement is much cooler than the air outdoors.
Solution: One way to deal with excess moisture problems is to install a dehumidifier in the basement. A dehumidifier will remove excess moisture from the air and prevent condensation from building up on basement walls.
Taking a proactive approach to a wet basement is the best way to prevent major water damage to a home.
Homeowners who are aware of the common causes of water damage and know how to prevent them have a better of chance of protecting their property and keeping their families safe.
