Moisture Control

Are you frustrated with dealing with basement and crawl moisture problems? If so, you are not alone. The National Association of Realtors® (NAR) says 87% of homes over 10 years old suffer the same problem. As a homeowner you will concur that nothing is more disgusting than a damp space which always has a musty odor.

Not only does a leaking basement devalue your precious investment but also poses a health risk to your family.  Growth of toxic black mold on the floor and walls will lead to increasing respiratory health issues especially among your children. Moisture also compromises the strength of your foundation walls which again jeopardizes your home.

These are good reasons to learn a few solutions for this vexing moisture control problem. Here are some ideas:

1. Foundation Walls Repair

Surface water is the main culprit in basement leakage and you should thus have a professional look at your foundation walls. Most likely there are hair cracks that are allowing water to flow in.  Indeed, hydro-static pressure according to the Concrete Foundation Association (CFA) is responsible for over 94% of water-related problems in these spaces.  Sealing these cracks using epoxy or other materials is the first step in remedying the problem.

2. Foundation Walls Waterproofing

This is the surest way of moisture control in your home.  Not only is it a durable solution but it also adds extra protection to the walls. There are different materials available for external and internal waterproofing. They include polyurethane sheets and waterproof foams sprayed on the outer walls.

3. Extend the Downspout

Your downspouts could be causing your basement moisture nightmare. If the discharge pipe is not well positioned or if it is short it will drain water right next to the foundation walls.  Water flows using the easiest path and if your walls have cracks you will have a problem on your hands. You should thus get a contractor to clean the downspout and extend the discharge pipe away from the walls.

4. Improve the Grading

Naturally a house settles within months or a few years and this will create a clay bowl situation. This means the area around the walls will slope inwards and surface water will in turn stand here.  Such standing increases hydro-static pressure on the walls and water eventually seeps through cracks and gaps. A landscaping contractor reworks the grading to let water flow away from the walls.

5. Sump Pump

This according to the National Foundation Repair Association (NFRA) is the ultimate moisture control solution for your basement. A sump pump pit collects any rising ground water and then the pump directs it out of the room through a discharge pipe. This keeps your basement in pristine condition.

Well, you must leverage professional help if you want to deal with moisture problems permanently. They have the skills and tools to make your basement a pleasant place to visit.