The fact is that most basements share a common problem, they suffer from damp sickness. This can be a real problem, especially if you are considering turning that extra space into brand new living space. But exactly why are so many basements damp?

Finding the Moisture Source

The water that can lead to a damp basement comes from a number of different sources. Rainfall, the melting snow and simple groundwater can all cause the kind of excess moisture that leads to basement mold and mildew that can ruin floors, walls and even the structural framing. In can in fact even be dangerous to your health.

One common way that dampness sets in is when water slowly begins to seep in through the roof, the walls and even the foundation itself. Dampness can also be the result of condensation building up on basement walls, floors and items stored in the area.

There is some good news though. Most basement damp problems can be solved, or at least significantly decreased fairly easily.

Fixing the Problem

Cleaning the gutters all around your home can be one easy way to decrease water seepage into your basement. Installing an extension that draws the water away from the foundation can be a real help as well.

If you do not have a good ventilation system installed in the bathrooms of your home, adding one would be a great investment. This draws much of the general moisture in the house out, making for cleaner, fresher air all around.

A dehumidifier can help solve many of the damp problems in a basement. If there is so much moisture in the air though that you need to run it constantly connect its collection reservoir to an external drain source, as otherwise the unit will shut off when it is full.

Insulating the Damp Away

Adequately insulating areas where dampness can creep in can be a great help as well. Such areas include all the pipe and duct work in your basement area.

Checking the whole foundation for cracks and sealing them adequately can also greatly alleviate any water seepage into your basement. These can be present even if you consider your basement ‘finished.”

The Last Resort

If all else fails, you may want to consider installing a sump pump, especially if you have an ongoing problem with a lot of water coming in during rainstorms or after a snowfall. This will not solve the damp problem itself, but it will get rid of the immediate problem so that you can begin implementing some of the other measures mentioned in this article.

A damp basement can be a real headache for homeowners, but it is a problem that can be overcome with a few corrective measures and a little careful vigilance.

By Melanie Rivera