The foundation is the strongest part of any home. Because most basements are below grade (ground), they are more prone to moisture problems and water damage. As foundation walls shift and settle into the earth, cracks will inevitably develop, and water can seep in resulting in a wet basement. These foundation cracks can typically be fixed with waterproofing solutions.
5 Common Causes of Basement Dampness
Many things can cause your basement to be damp or leak. The major culprits include:
- Underground Location
Basements are mainly underground and naturally cooler than the rest of the house. Because of this, cool air isn’t able to hold as much moisture as the warm air in the other rooms. When air from upper rooms mixes with air from the basement, it condenses on the basement walls, including uninsulated pipes that run through it. - Moisture Rising from the Soil
If the basement is not waterproofed, moisture could slowly rise from the ground below and make its way through the foundation right to your floor and walls. This is likely to become a problem if your home is built with porous concrete blocks or bricks. - Broken Pipes and Wall Cracks
Leaky pipes and cracks on the foundation wall also act as a conduit for moisture and water. French drains, rain gutters, and sewer overflows are other potential causes of dampness. More often than not, they cause water to come into contact with the basement walls and floor. - Basement Laundry
If you do laundry in your basement and use a dryer, it will direct much of the moisture from the clothes to your walls. Over time, the moisture will condense and cause your walls to become damp. - Windows and Window Wells
If you have basement or egress windows and window wells, these systems can wear down over time and succumb to exterior forces like precipitation and hydrostatic pressure. Water from old or damaged windows and clogged window wells can easily seep inside and lead to leaks and dampness.
What Happens If You Don’t Fix Your Damp Basement?
Basement moisture is caused by a variety of factors and can lead to a host of unpleasant issues – from smells and mold that impact the health and safety of your home. As well as damaging your possessions, damp basements that are not properly waterproofed also weaken structural supports and make your house unsafe. If you’re planning to sell a home with a wet basement, you will have difficulties finding willing buyers. Many of them will back off when they realize your basement is damp. So keeping your leaking basement dry should be your number one priority.
How To Fix a Damp Basement
Here are different ways to tackle the issues.
Homeowner Maintenance
Here are some tasks you can take on yourself or with the guidance of a handyman:
- Fix Broken Pipes: If the cause is a broken pipe, have a plumber fix it. Make sure pipes are adequately insulated to prevent moisture from condensing and seeping through the walls.
- Use Ventilation Fans: These fixtures are essential in your baths and kitchen to control moisture. Make sure they’re venting outside. Check your heating and ventilation system, ensuring it’s sized correctly and is removing moisture from indoor air.
- Clean and Maintain Exterior Drainage: Keeping external drainage systems like your gutters and downspouts clear and in good condition is key to directing excess rainwater away from your home and preventing moisture buildup.
Professional Basement Waterproofing
The best way to nip seeping water and basement moisture in the bud is with professionally installed basement waterproofing solutions. These include:
- Interior Drainage: A drainage system placed in your basement’s subfloor catches water from the walls, floor, and cove (where the walls and floor meet).
- Sump Pump: The water collected from the interior drain is directed to a sump pump. This system then pumps the water out of the basement and away from your home’s foundation.
- Wall Vapor Barrier: A vapor barrier placed on the walls prevents liquid and vapor intrusion. If any water leaks through the walls, it runs behind the liner and down to the interior drain system.
- Dehumidifier: An energy-efficient dehumidifier keeps any excess moisture at bay. This unit also cleans and filters the air and reduces odors.
When to Call a Professional?
If you’re unsure of how deep the damage goes and whether you can properly fix the water problems yourself, calling an expert in your area will give you peace of mind. Many waterproofing service companies offer a free inspection to tell you the extent of damage and the cost of repair services. If they find that your home has extensive basement leaks that have caused major structural damage or that your home needs foundation repair, it may be best to have a professional handle the work. There could be instances where a contractor may be required to repair significant foundational damage, or a landscape architect/civil engineer would recommend re-grading your yard and/or redesigning your drainage system.
