Common Causes of Basement Moisture

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Common Causes of Basement Moisture

December 23, 2021

Basements are normally dark, musty, and damp. But they’re not actually meant to be overly wet. Here are some common causes of basement moisture.

 

Basements are notorious for being dimly lit and damp. A small amount of moisture generally isn’t a cause for concern, but a highly wet basement can eventually experience a slew of problems, including a musty smell; heavy, humid air; wall and floor damage; and even mold and mildew growth. If you notice troubling signs of excess moisture in your basement, it’s time to buckle down and locate the source before things can get even worse. Here are some of the most common causes of basement moisture.

Damaged or Missing Gutter/Downspouts

The main goal of the gutter and downspouts is to redirect water away from your home’s foundation. When either of these is missing or damaged in any way, rainwater will begin to accumulate around the foundation. Inevitably, this water will find a way to creep into the basement. If your home currently lacks gutters and downspouts, adding them is usually a quick fix to this problem. If you already have them, check to see if they’re clogged. Too much dirt and debris in your gutters will cause water to spill over the sides and leak into the basement.

A Water Leak

This is one of the most common causes of basement moisture. If your basement is unusually damp, the first thing you’ll want to do is check for an interior leak. Showers, sinks, washing machines, dishwashers, and other appliances can all cause interior leaks. That’s a lot of potential culprits. Pinpointing the exact source might take some time and force you to channel your inner sleuthing skills. Thankfully, leaks are easy to fix once you’ve identified the source. You can try to repair the leak on your own or hire a plumber to do it for you. If the leak was what caused the excess moisture in your basement, the problem should go away after you’ve mended it. If the problem persists, though, you’ll need to start considering other possibilities.

Problems With the Landscape

Your landscape may look immaculate this year, but you might realize that there’s just one small problem—it’s causing rain, sleet, and snow to rush toward your home like a tidal wave. If the grading surrounding your home faces inward instead of outward, water will head toward your home instead of toward the street. The water that accumulates around the immediate perimeter of your home will eventually weasel into the basement. The only way to permanently solve this issue is to call up your landscaper or an experienced architect and have them redo the sloping. To prevent further problems with moisture, consider lining the outside of your home with rocks. They’ll form a barricade against water and, as a bonus, increase curb appeal.

Do you have a sneaking feeling that the moisture in your basement has led to mold growth? Connecticut Mold’s mold testing services can help you confirm your suspicions. We also offer mold remediation services for homes and businesses alike. Contact us today to schedule our testing or remediation services!