Moisture In Basements: Causes and Solutions

What comes next in this article?

• Understanding the issue with moiѕturе in basements
• Signs and symptoms of moisture in your basement
• Common causes of basement moisture problems
• Inаdеԛuаtе grading
• Dеfесtіvе or mіѕѕіng guttеrѕ and drains
• Improperly Designed Window Wells
• Structural Cracks

Basements have been having moisture problems for as long as there have been basements, it is a common occurrence, and can be solved. Problems arise however when the basements are not constructed or treated properly. Basement moisture problems can lead to serious problems when not treated, both for your home and for the health of your family. Moisture in your basement will lead to the growth of mould and mildew and can severely, and seriously affect the structural integrity of your foundations, It is essential that any moisture problems are solved if you are constructing or finishing a basement.

Understanding the issue with moiѕturе in basements

In order to treat moisture problems, you need to know where it’s coming from and how it is getting in. There are 3 sources of water in your basement. 

1. Rain or groundwater
2. Sources inside the home, such as humidifiers, tumble dryers, cooking and also moisture present in cement.
3. Water vapour in the air comes from outside and condenses inside. 

Signs and symptoms of moisture in your basement

• Puddles on the floor 
• High humidity
• Condensation on the floor and walls u summer
• Rotten wood
• The presence of mould
• A musty smell
• cracks in the Foundation, walls or floor
• Deteriorating building materials
• stains and discolouration or walls and Floors.

Common causes of basement moisture problems

1. High humidity levels
2. Poor ventilation
3. Water seepage through cracks or leaks
4. Improper grading of the land around the foundation
5. Improper sealing of concrete surfaces
6. Plumbing leaks
7. Poor drainage near the foundation
8. Rising water table
9. HVAC condensation.

Inаdеԛuаtе grading

PROBLEM: Inadequate grading can cause water to pool around the foundation of the basement, leading to potential water damage and seepage into the basement. This can cause severe structural damage to the foundation and lead to a variety of mould and mildew problems.

SOLUTION: More soil can be placed around the house to reduce the incline. Waterproofing and installing a french drain are also viable solutions.

Dеfесtіvе or mіѕѕіng guttеrѕ and drains

PROBLEM: If your roof is missing gutters or drains, or they are not working properly, the water which should be directed away from the house by these things ends up pooling around the house foundations.

SOLUTION: Make sure that all drains, gutters and downspouts are in good working order. Replace any missing ones.

Improperly Designed Window Wells

PROBLEM: Wіndоw wеllѕ can be poorly constructed or improperly installed and can allow water to seep into the basement, causing water damage and mould growth. 

SOLUTION: Make sure your window wells have been properly constructed and that the tiles are laid to cover any small space not covered.

Structural Cracks

PROBLEM: Cоnсrеtе based properties often accumulate structural cracks over time. Soil movement can lead to cracks, Where the walls meet immovable structures such as the chimney also causes breaks in the concrete. Water can then seep into the basement from these cracks.

SOLUTION: Ensure that the concrete is mixed and cured properly to make it strong and dense. Make sure the soil underneath the concrete is packed firmly and stable. Install control joints,  that will allow the concrete to move without cracking. Waterproof the concrete once the basement is constructed.