Diagnosis

When the basement is damp, high humidity or water leak can be the cause of your problem. Both of these causes can lead to biological growth and mold & mildew as well as other biological growth. It is also depends of the seriousness and conditions that may lead to premature paint failure, structural damage as well as numerous health problems. In addition, the water can enter through the structures of your basement structure outside from its foundation, which may leak from doors, windows and small gaps. Leaking bathtub, shower, toilet and water pipe can also be the cause of the problem. Normal daily activities like drying clothes, cooking and showering can also be the origin of the problem.  Moisture that can get through the concrete may cause a damp basement. Furthermore, there can be no sign of indoor leaking, but the moisture primarily increases the humidity in the indoor. Condensation is also the common cause for the floors and wells to become humid for several months.

Prescription Checklist

  • Determine first the origin of the problem, whether it is started on the corners, below bathroom, ceiling and other areas. In the event that the problem is confined to one area only, like a spot on the corner, wall and ceiling, which is probably caused by water seep. If the problem is present in large are like the entire room or wall, humidity can be the number one cause.
  • If you have a certain plan to refashion the basement, it is very essential to control first the moisture problems before you start to do some alterations. Corrective actions are easy, but occasionally, it is still depends on the severity of the condition, which is more likely expensive and difficult.

Stop Water Leaks

  • In the occasion that leak is the origin of the problem, it is best to repair it first.
  • If there’s standing water within the floor of the basement after a heavy rain or weather disturbances, then a leak on its foundation can be the origin.
  • Make sure to clean the rain gutter and redirect it away from the foundation of your house or basement.
  • It is also important to make sure that the ground within the house slopes are away from its foundation. If needed, regrade it so that the ground doesn’t slope away.
  • If you have installed a sump pump, make sure that it is properly working.
  • If there are any stains of water on the wall or ceiling near the sink or bathroom, it can be a leak from the pipe, shower, bathtub and water pipe. Contact a plumber at once to fix the leak.
  • If the leak has caused a serious water damage like mold, you may need to get a professional that will repair the water damage as well as mold remediation

Reducing Indoor Humidity

  • If the basement has dirt floor, make sure to cover the entire floor completely with a plastic to reduce the water vapor from the soil.
  • You can also use ventilation fans in the baths and kitchens to reduce the moisture. Make sure that the ventilation fans is directly towards outside. In some cases, vent fan can be installed into the attic or can be blocked or disconnected.
  • The clothes dryer must also vented directly outside. Be sure that the vent duct is working properly. The vent duct must be clean regularly like annually to avoid from being blocked and disconnected.
  • If you are not sure, you can also contact a professional that can help you check the cooling and heating system, so that they can check if the machines are operating appropriately. In the occasion that the system is too large or the airflow is incorrect, make sure that it is properly fixed immediately. In addition, you can also ask the professional to check if there are any leaks so that the air flows very well within the room.
  • Sealing the sealing duck and air leaks can also prevent too much humidity in your house.
  • During humid and hot months, be sure to use dehumidifier in the basement in order to minimize the condensation of the wall. After you have successfully sealed the duck and air leaks, you can be sure that the basement will be safe from any harm that can affect your home.

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Filed under: Damp Basement

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