Many homeowners are faced with a wet basement anytime it rains. Damp living spaces threaten your health and property. Moisture can result in mold development, damaged building materials, and costly foundation repairs. The good news is it is possible to keep your basement dry.
Ways to Keep Your Basement Dry
A wet basement is a problem you must address as soon as possible. Let’s look at a few things you can do to keep a dry basement year-round.
Keep Water Away from the Foundation
Water often gets into the basement by seeping through the foundation. Clean the gutters and downspouts regularly, as they direct rainwater away from the foundation.
Look at the grading of your yard. There must be a minor slope away from the property, so rainwater and irrigation water don’t flow toward the foundation.
Insulate Cold Water Pipes
Pipes are often insulated before winter to help reduce the risk of frozen plumbing and prevent condensation on the pipes. Frozen pipes often crack or burst, causing leaks.
Cold water pipes are prone to condensation, or “sweating,” on hot, humid days, increasing moisture in the basement. Foam insulation is ideal for insulating your cold water pipes because it is cheap, easy to use, and effective.
Waterproof the Basement
Waterproofing the basement is usually performed when converting a basement into a living space. However, adding a waterproof sealant to the walls and floor of any basement can help prevent water from seeping through the materials.
If your basement walls or floor have significant cracking, it is essential to have this damage repaired before adding a waterproof sealant.
Keep Your Basement Dry with a Dehumidifier
Lower areas of the home, such as the basement, accumulate more moisture during warm, humid weather. Humidity levels increase due to air leaks and open windows, leading to paint peeling and warping of building materials.
You can avoid these issues by using a dehumidifier in the basement. It will dry out the air and create a more comfortable environment. Keep the humidity levels in the basement between 30 and 50 percent.
The tips above will help you keep a dry basement and avoid the problems that excess moisture can cause.
R. Sorensen Construction and Inspections provides home inspection services to customers in Eastern Oregon. Contact us to schedule an appointment.