The Hidden Dangers of a Wet Basement and How to Fix Them
People often make light of wet basements because they appear to be “no big deal”. However, even a small amount of moisture could be a warning sign of underlying problems. Water in the basement could indicate damage, so if it happens only once or keeps coming back, water can slowly damage your home and affect your health, too.
That’s why it is important to understand the warning signs, what causes them, the related risks, and take steps to fix the issue properly. If you live in the St. Charles area, professionals like Ram Jack St. Charles can help asses and resolve basement and foundation concerns before they get worse.
The Silent Signs of Basement Moisture
It could be hard to find moisture in the basement because many times it doesn’t show itself with puddles of water; instead, in many cases, there have been subtle signs of moisture that homeowners have overlooked. These signs are in front of our eyes but tough to spot, so look out for:
Musty Odors
Musty odors are generally damp and earthlike, often subtle, but they’re one of the first signs that something is wrong. Many times, we cannot see water, but the smell usually means there is moisture in the basement.
Discoloration or Stains on Walls and Floors
After drying up, water can leave yellow or white marks on surfaces, which could indicate that you haven’t noticed water.
Efflorescence
It’s generally a white, powdery stuff that you can see when water dries up and leaves behind minerals. This is a clear sign of water getting through the concrete or brick.
Peeling Paint or Bubbling Walls
Many times, paint or wallpaper comes off the wall because of the moisture present on the surface beneath the paint.
What Causes Wet Basements?
People often wonder about the reason behind wet basements, but there is no specific answer to it because basement moisture comes from various sources. Understanding the cause behind moisture in the basement can help in fixing the root cause, and some of the most common causes are:
Poor Drainage Around Your Home
Generally, when gutters are blocked or the yard tilts toward the house, rainwater collects near the foundation, leading to slow leakage in the basement, which causes moisture.
Cracks in the Foundation
Fix your small cracks in the basement walls or floors. They seep in water during heavy rains or snowmelts, causing moisture.
High Groundwater Levels
Many areas have high water levels naturally, which leads to constant pressure on basement walls.
Plumbing Leaks
Water can be coming from inside your house, like from a leaking pipe or appliance, and can slowly saturate the area without you realizing it.
Condensation
When the basement is cooler than other parts of the house, then moisture in the air turns into water on the walls and floors, especially if it’s humid weather.
The Real Risks: Why You Shouldn’t Ignore Them
Wet basements can lead to many problems and not only damage your home but also your health.
Mildew Growth
Moisture causes mold, which quickly spreads in the air and affects the air quality of your house. Molds can also impact health, triggering allergies, asthma, and many other health problems.
Structural Damage
Water damages the wooden structure of your house over time, which creates big problems and costs huge expenses. When the problem isn’t fixed, it can lead to cracks in the foundation, and the walls might start to crumble. All of it sounds scary, right? Well, that’s why you should be aware and regularly check for moisture.
Ruined Belongings
Moisture can ruin furniture storage boxes and even home appliances kept in the basement, and sometimes, even belongings get ruined inside the room.
Lower Home Value
Moisture can dampen the house and add to many problems, which leads to a lower value and often lower appraisals than homes with dry, protected basements.
When to Call a Professional
Some moisture issues are easy to fix, either through a dehumidifier or rerouting a downspout, and some other simple fixes. However, not all basement problems are DIY-friendly. You should consider calling a professional if:
- You notice dampness or puddles every time after rain.
- Appearance of moulds even after regular cleaning
- Cracks in the foundation or widening of older cracks.
- You can not identify the source of the problem.
- A musty odor persists year-round.
If you notice any of these conditions, it is best to consult a professional. Professionals have the expertise to assess soil conditions and recommend permanent waterproofing and drainage solutions as needed.
Conclusion
A wet basement can lead to serious issues, such as harming your house’s structure, your health, and even leading to various expenses. It is important to solve this problem by observing the early signs and finding the root cause.
Find professional help as soon as you spot signs, improve drainage, seal foundation cracks, or install a dehumidifier to keep your basement moisture-free and your home safe.
