A basement or sub-level room in your home is more susceptible to moisture intrusion than other parts of the home. For this reason, it is important to keep an eye out for any moisture or water intrusion. Water is a destructive force and if not addressed can wreck havoc on the structural integrity and air quality of any home.
DO NOT ignore water in your basement!
Basement Moisture Should be Addressed Before Damage Occurs
Failing to address water in the basement can lead to significant problems ranging from foundation cracking to poor health due to compromised air quality.
Signs of Water Leaks
Looking over your basement area, there are several signs that can alert you to the presence of water in the home.
Here are a few of the most commons signs:
- Odors – moldy, mildewy air is a clear indicator that moisture is present
- Cracking concrete – provides a direct entry for water in the home
- Drywall staining – look for darkened patches on drywall. This can indicate moisture absorbing into the paper and sheetrock.
Problems from a Wet Basement
Home Structural Damage – Cracks in the foundation, efflorescence of the minerals in the concrete and damage to the wood frame is common with basement moisture.
Mold Growth – Mold is a byproduct of heat, moisture and a food source. Your home’s wood framework, drywall and carpet are areas that mold can easily grow on. Allowing water to remain present in the area will eventually lead to mold attaching itself to the organic material in the home.
Pests – Mosquitos, mice, camel crickets and many other pests can infest the area. Standing water or moisture in general is a draw to insects and other pests to your basement.
Ways to Prevent the Risk of Flooding
Monitor Basement for Signs of Water
Keep an eye for any signs of moisture. Water leaks can occur from plumbing, faulty refrigerator waterlines, and from foundation problems. Water can even penetrate the interior of homes by soaking into the ground and traveling into spaces void of water, typically the area under a home foundation.
Limit Water Damage
Removing standing water can help to reduce damage to the basement area. Running water can be even more problematic as it has the potential to erode material over time.
Locate Cracks and Leaks
Finding the source of water is essential to solving the problem long term. Look for cracks in the foundation and areas where seams meet. This is a common place for water to gain entry. Cleaning and sealing these areas will help with water prevention.
Fix Existing Water Problems
Simply removing the water from the basement area is only part of the solution. To remedy the issue completely, all areas that are a source for water intrusion must be addressed and sealed to prevent further contamination. The best way to do this is via basement waterproofing and encapsulation services.
Completely Seal and Waterproof the Basement
A completely sealed basement is the best way to prevent water intrusion in the future. An encapsulated crawl space or basement provides a barrier that water cannot penetrate, thus protecting your home indefinitely.
Contact a Raleigh Basement Waterproofing Expert
Crawl Space & Basement Technologies is a licensed mold remediation and basement waterproofing company who can restore your basement to a clean, healthy space free from mold spores, odors, or water damage. Plus, we’ll work with you to keep water out moving forward with our basement sealing services.
Give our Raleigh encapsulation team a call at 919-847-7072 or complete the online contact form.