Basement moisture can be a cause for alarm if it is not handled in time. Some of the damages that come about from basement moisture include damaged walls, floors and the emergence of molds.
If you notice any signs of basement moisture, it is only right to take appropriate action. One of the best way to handle this is through basement waterproofing.
Basement waterproofing involves installing water proof materials and drainage pipes that ensure proper drainage and prevent water from sipping into the basement of a building or a house.
Without further ado, below are the causes of basement moisture.
- Heavy rains
Heavy rain is the number one cause of basement moisture. In seasons of heavy rains, water may sip into basement. The best thing to do so as to minimize this is by closing all windows in times of heavy rains.
- Inadequate ventilation
Proper ventilation and good circulation of air is essential in any house. It goes along way in preventing the buildup of moisture in the basement.
One of the best ways to do this is by making sure all ventilation channels are in proper condition and windows are opened during favorable weather.
- Cracks in the foundation
A house that has cracks in the foundation will let in water. If not quickly attended to, the cracks will get bigger causing much bigger problems.
- Plumbing leaks
Pipes are broken or those that have not been fixed well are another possible cause of basement moisture. It is best to fix the issues as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of molds growing.
- Condensation
When warm air in the basement comes into contact with cold air from outside, condensation happens on the basement walls and floor.
This is due to factors such as poor air circulation, basement bathrooms and sweating pipes. To reduce the likelihood of condensation happening, it is best to properly insulate pipes.
- Groundwater infiltration
There are times when a building’s foundation has a lot of moisture. This moisture may sip in through cracks on the floor and cause basement moisture.
Sealing these cracks is the best option. However, it is wise to consult professionals in case the cracks are very large.
- Clothes being dried in the house.
Clothes should always be dried outside; even during humid weather. Wet clothes increase the amount of humidity in a room increasing the likelihood of basement moisture.
- Clogged gutters
There are times when bird nests, twigs and feathers may cause clogged gutters. If this happens, water will not drain properly.
In such cases, water may find its way into the foundation of the building and as earlier stated and sip through cracks on the walls and floor.
- Sprinklers that direct water into the house
Plants and flowers around the house are a beauty to look at. However, overwatering them and a constant spray of water from sprinklers can bring about unforeseen dangers.
The excess water can move into the buildings’ foundation and infiltrate into the basement.
It is therefore advised that watering of plants and other flowers be done only when necessary. In addition, sprinklers should be directed away from the house.
