Water Proofing

Is Water A Problem In Your Basement?

Did you know that the average basement lets in 18 gallons of moisture each day, several times more than bathrooms and kitchen combined?

The fact is, too much moisture can cause mold. Molds and dust mites (which thrive in moist areas) aggravate or cause allergies and asthma, particularly, in children.

Here are some signs that you may have too much moisture in your basement.

• Puddles of water or wet spots - If you see puddles of water, unless they were caused by an overflowing laundry tub, etc., you most likely have a water problem.
• Mold and Mildew – Mold and mildew are funguses that grow in damp and dark areas, and cause discoloration, or musty odors. It could be colored black, brown, yellow or green. Often the northwest corner of a house is known as a "cold corner" and susceptible to developing mold.
  
• Moldy or musty odors or damp smell -This is the result of the decay process from mold, and dry rot.
  
• Peeling Paint or flaking or peeling concrete-Flaking, chipping or peeling paint or concrete is a sign that you have moisture problems and waterproofing issues.
  
• Damp Spots or water stains on walls or floors-Water has absorbed through your windows, walls or floors.
  
• Sagging or wet insulation or condensation on surfaces-This is a sure sign that you have moisture.
  
• White Substance on Basement Walls- Called efflorescence, this is a white or sometimes grayish ash on the walls that sometimes sparkles. Efflorescence is caused by salt deposits left behind by evaporating water.
  
• Cracked Walls or separation of blocks at the joints-This can occur from stress on walls or foundation settlement and should be inspected to determine the cause and severity.
  
• Rust on Appliances or Furniture- Rust is caused by a wet environment and is the sign of waterproofing issues. Furnaces are good things to check for rust.
  
• Dry Rot-Dry rot is a black fungus that grows mostly on walls or wooden surfaces, causing wood to decay.
  

Water and moisture problems in a home can cause many problems including health concerns, destruction of property and reduced value of your home. Studies have shown that most people won't even consider buying a home with water leakage. Selling a home with water leaks can easily result in as much as a 25% reduction in the sale price.

Therefore, if you suspect you have a water problem be sure to get an experts opinion on the cause and the solution.  There may be multiple causes for the problems and most times the solutions are best provided by a competent professional.