How to Fix a Damp Basement

Wet or damp basements are a prevalent issue in many homes. The excess moisture can be caused by various factors, from damp soil to poor ventilation. But no matter the cause, a wet basement is a serious health risk to you and your family. If you have damp areas in your basement, do not hesitate to address the problem. Here are some tips for identifying the cause of dampness in your basement and how to eliminate it as quickly as possible.

Rain or Ground Water

The most common reason for water in a basement is groundwater coming into your home. Another culprit is standing groundwater and water that is not being drained away from the house’s subsurface drainage system. Water will seep into the house through cracks and other means if it is not properly drained from the home. If you have gutters, clean them regularly and ensure the downspouts lead away from the building.

Condensation

Condensation can be caused by cold surface temperatures and increased air humidity. So to reduce it, you must warm up your basement or dry out the air. If your water pipes get cold in the summer, be sure to wrap them with foam insulation to get rid of condensation. Additionally, ensure your dryer is vented to the exterior of the home. Inspect vent pipes for leaks or clogs, which can contribute to unwanted indoor moisture.

Humidity

If you still do not see signs of dampness in your basement, or you already have a drain system that still feels damp or humid, you should look into the humidity of your basement. For most people, it is recommended to get a dehumidifier to even out the air quality in the basement. However, be careful when purchasing a dehumidifier. Most store-bought dehumidifiers are not designed to operate at under 70°F. Pick an adequately sized dehumidifier designed to run continuously in cool basements or crawlspaces.

Subsurface Water

If you still have water seeping in below grade, you will have to deal with the water inside your home. In this case, solutions can get more complicated and require professional intervention. You can install a french drain, a trench that rests against the inside of a foundation wall. Water spills into this trench and is drained away from the home’s foundation. Another trick is to install a vapor barrier on the basement floor to stop water from coming in.

Contact All Aspects Waterproofing Today to Improve Your Indoor Air Quality!

When it comes to finding the best solution for your crawl space encapsulation and waterproofing needs, contact All Aspect Waterproofing, a Better Business Bureau A+ rated company with over 30 years of experience in the Washington, DC./Maryland/Virginia area. We have a great deal of experience in waterproofing, mold testing, and mold remediation, and we want to make you feel at home again. Contact us online or by calling 1-866-999-3110 or 301-766-4420.  To see what we’re up to, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, YouTube, LinkedIn, and Houzz.