Common Solutions to Basement Moisture Problems

basement moisture

Basement Moisture

One of the most important things you can do for your home and your sanity is to deal with basement moisture problems. This will go a long way in not only protecting the value of your home but also the health of your family.

Wet basements are nasty places. They not only smell but feel nasty. If left unchecked, they can provide the perfect environment for mold and mildew to grow. They can also be the perfect home for other pests and insects.

If you’re determined to keep basement moisture out, here are a few strategies to get you started:

  1. Add extensions to your gutters

Basement moisture problems aren’t confined to the ground level. They can result from further up. This includes the runoff from your roof. If the runoff is not been drained far enough from the foundation, it can result in moisture problems by increasing hydrostatic pressure against the basement walls.

You can prevent this from happening by adding extensions to the gutters. These extensions should drain water not less than five feet away from the house.

  1. Fix the plumbing

Are the pipes in your home leaking or dripping water near the foundation? Call your plumber and have these pipes fixed or replaced. This will prevent the leaking from continuing. You will not only save your basement but save money by preventing water wastage.

  1. Redirect surface water

If the landscape around your home is sloping towards the foundation, then surface water will flow towards your home. You’ll need to create a berm or trench that can direct water away from the foundation of your home.

One of the most effective ways of dealing with excess water in the soil is to install an exterior drain tile around the foundation walls. This will drain water from the soil and guide it away from the foundation walls. Be sure to have a professional basement contractor install this for the best results.

  1. Waterproof your walls

If you want to keep the water out, then you need to ensure that the basement walls are impermeable. The best way to do this is by installing a waterproof membrane on the exterior surface of the foundation walls. These membranes keep the water out and ensure your basement is kept nice and dry.

These methods used in combination will ensure that you have a dry basement for the long term. Contact a professional contractor to help you find the best solution for your basement.