Getting the Wet Basement Dry

Though people won't see a flooded basement once they step inside, the effects will be apparent if left untreated. The effects are contagious – moisture paves the way for a lot of problems. Wood components can get weak, rot and molds will be all around. The fact that the basement gets less sunlight (unless you have special windows that let it in), it becomes the perfect haven for fungus. If you have any special flooring involved such as carpeting that gets ruined too in no time.

Mother Nature 

We all know about rain and snow, but what about when it melts? Plus, condensation can also pack a punch. This occurs when warm air reaches the cool walls of the basement and water pipes that aren't insulated. This causes rust on metal components of your basement and makes it damp. How can you stop this? How can you slow down the process so you can prevent further damage? Gutters. A house component that's usually deprived of proper maintenance may be the culprit. Check for any misdirected downspouts. Check for any possible leaks along the gutters and the downspout. Misdirected water flow makes the house foundation soaked – and that includes your basement. Water seeping through is not good news. Have the leaks repaired and have the downspouts extended if needed.

Cracks and holes

Water seeping through the basement walls? Check for cracks and holes nearby. You can find them easily near the base of your home, and where the pipes are placed. Hydraulic cement is the best choice for sealing them up. The mixture composes of water that hardens to make a strong bond, which shows its toughness to moisture. This greatly reduces the chances of water seepage. Basement Windows. It’s common nowadays for home to have basement windows. It’s perfect for basements that are used as spare rooms to let some sunlight in. However, the way these windows are placed give way for water to seep through its edges. Some basement windows are placed like they were “dug out.” An excellent way to keep it water-free is to install plastic well covers so the sunlight still goes through.

Humidity control

When the air has high humidity, it has a large amount of water vapor. No matter how leak-free your basement is, there can still be moisture. This is a perfect place for mold and fungus. If you have the spare budget, you can purchase a dehumidifier (normally starts at $200 each) that regulates the humidity of a room. If keeping the basement absolutely dry and not smelling musky, then this device can help.

Preparation

Saving the basement from further damage is absolutely easy and you don’t need to call professionals right away. However, if you want to prepare your basement for the future, a basement waterproofing service is the best option. This helps greatly in making quick fixes easier in the future. The price for the services may vary but it usually starts from $2,000. How to do you fix a wet basement? Do you have other methods that you use? Join the discussion at the Hallett Gutter Cover Facebook page.