- By Dylan Smith
- In Uncategorized
The Top 4 Causes of Basement Moisture And How to Fix Them!
There’s nothing worse than coming home to an unwanted surprise – especially if that surprise is wet, moldy basement walls! Basement moisture can be an unsightly nuisance, but it can also rot away your basement walls and flooring at an alarming rate.
Unfortunately, basements can seem like a black hole to many homeowners; whenever they think they’ve fixed one problem, another one pops up in its place!
However, the following are some reasons moisture accumulates in your basement.
1. Cracks in the Foundation or Walls
When cracks form in the foundation or walls of a home, they can provide a pathway for moisture to enter the basement. Water seeping through the cracks can create damp conditions in your basement.
Once inside, this moisture can lead to several problems, including mold growth and mildew. In addition, excessive moisture can also damage stored items. Additionally, basement moisture can cause the paint or wallpaper to peel and the flooring to warp. In extreme cases, it can even cause the foundation to shift, leading to larger cracks and further damage.
As a result, it is crucial to hire professionals as soon as possible to prevent basement moisture issues.
2. Rising Groundwater
Rising groundwater is a serious problem that can lead to basement moisture. When the water table rises, it puts pressure on your home’s foundation. This can cause cracks in the foundation, which allow water to seep into the basement. In addition, rising groundwater can result in wet soil around your home’s foundation. This wet soil can erode, causing the foundation to settle and crack.
One way to do this is to install a French drain around the perimeter of your home. A French drain is a trench that is filled with gravel. It helps to redirect water away from your home and prevents the wet soil from eroding.
3. Excess Humidity in the Air
Excess humidity in the air is a common cause of basement moisture. The air can condense on cool surfaces like walls and floors when it is too moist. This can lead to mold growth, musty odors, and even structural damage.
One way to tackle this is to use a dehumidifier. Another possibility is to improve ventilation by installing fans or opening windows.
4. Vented Gas Appliances
Many homes have gas-powered appliances such as furnaces, water heaters, and dryers. While these appliances are convenient and can save energy costs, they can also source basement moisture.
The gas because gas appliances produce water vapor as a by-product of combustion. This vapor can condense on cold surfaces such as windows and walls, leading to moisture buildup. Gas appliances typically have vents that release water vapor into the air. If these vents are located in the basement, the humid air can further contribute to moisture problems.
It’s essential to have your gas appliances properly serviced and to ensure that any vents are correctly vented to the outside to avoid this issue.
Wrapping Up!
Basements are often damp and humid, leading to mold and mildew growth. Utah Basement Finishing has a variety of solutions to offer! We offer various basement finishing options, including flooring, walls, and ceilings designed to resist mold and mildew growth. For more details, contact us today!
