Moisture in your basement is most commonly tied to humidity in your basement. The basement is the most humid room of your home because the moisture from the ground can seep in through your basement walls. The bad news is that even if your basement appears dry, water vapor can linger in the air for days or even weeks. The good news is that there are several options for dealing with basement humidity.
Basement Humidity- What’s the Big Deal?
So it is a little humid in your basement? What’s the big deal? Don’t neglect to address the humidity in your basement. High humidity levels are the leading cause of mold, mildew, and fungi growth. Not only are mold and mildew terrible for your health but the high humidity levels can eventually cause:
- Deterioration of floor joists
- Damage to any property stored in your basement
- Corrosion on appliances in your basement
The best basement is a dry basement with a healthy humidity level.
Options for Dealing with Basement Humidity
There are several options for dealing with basement humidity. After evaluating the condition of your basement, our team at Aqua-Guard can make the best recommendation to solve any water problems you currently have and stop them from happening in the future. Here are some of the ways we prevent high basement humidity.
Reduce or Stop Condensation from Entering the Space
Periodically check for any water that could be entering your basement. Standing or small pools of water, no matter how small, can greatly increase the humidity level in the basement and should be addressed. Look for leaks of any size that could let the water in on the floors, walls, and ceiling. Check any windows you may have in your basement and make sure they are properly sealed to keep the water out.
Waterproofing your basement proactively rather than reactively is key to preventing water damage and the growth of mold, mildew, and fungus. There are many DIY efforts out there. These methods do not address the 5 ways water can enter your home, though. That is why so many homeowners trust our professionals at Aqua-Guard. We will provide a free estimate and offer quality, guaranteed waterproofing work.
Install a Sump Pump
One aspect of waterproofing that can decrease high humidity in a basement is installing a sump pump. Sump pumps are triggered by an excess of water pooling in your basement. When water is detected the pump comes on to move the water far away from your home’s foundation. If installing a sump pump is the right solution for you, remember that you must periodically check your sump pump to keep it pumping. Since sump pumps work behind the scenes, many homeowners forget to check on their performance until a problem arises. Be sure to read our tips at Keep Your Sump Pump Pumping to keep your sump pump in the best working order.
Install a Basement Floor Drain
A basement floor drain, also known as a foundation drain, is a drain that sits at the lowest part of your basement. If water enters your basement, it will follow the path of least resistance and head down with the flow of gravity. This is why the floor drain must be at the lowest part of your basement to be effective. The floor drain is connected to your sewer system or your storm drain and empties excess water there.
Basement floor drains protect against water seeping in through cracks in your basement floor or walls, burst plumbing pipes, or leaking water heaters, washing machines, or HVAC units. Occasionally basement floor drains can become clogged and need to be cleared.
Aqua-Guard Waterproofing Can Keep Your Basement Humidity Down
If you suspect high humidity in your basement is an issue, don’t hesitate to contact the professionals at Aqua-Guard Waterproofing. We are your waterproofing experts and will have your water problems solved. We offer free inspections, a single point of contact throughout the process, and quality work in a timely manner. Contact us today so you are no longer dealing with basement humidity and can rest comfortably in your dry home!