As a Franklin, MA Realtor I see damp or wet basment issues on a regular basis. I have learned from hundreds of home inspections and my own research that many of these problems are preventable. Most commonly it appears that grading issues are a main cause of wet basements. Although some basement issues can be extremely costly, many are actually quite affordable. This article from National Grid gives some great tips and solutions for dealing with this frustrating problem.
Excessive moisture in basements can cause mold and mildew, poor indoor air quality, and even structural damage. The following measures will help you keep your lower level dry and comfortable, improve your overall indoor environment, and save money on unnecessary repair costs.
Outside
The most common source of excess moisture in basements is water leaking in from the outside. If you have water in your basement after a rain-or in the spring and fall-the first place to look is the area around your house.
- Check the landscaping around your house. If the ground slopes inward toward your house, a pool of water can form where it can sink into the ground and enter through the foundation. If you spot a problem, add to or rearrange the dirt around your foundation so that it slopes away at an angle of
one inch per foot. In some situations, the foundation may need to be sealed from outside or repaired. In these cases, contact a qualified contractor. - Avoid using mulch around your foundation, as it holds water. Plant grass or ground cover near the house where it will draw water out of the soil. Gravel or rocks around your house can also help to deflect moisture.
- Check gutters for leaks and make sure that they are cleaned regularly to avoid overspill. A leaky gutter can cause water to pool around your foundation in a heavy rain. If you spot a leak, have it repaired immediately. If you have older gutters, consider replacing them. Make sure that the downspouts direct water safely away from the house, at least five or six feet.
- Clean, tight-fitting metal window wells that are covered with gravel can help to seal out moisture. Clean out window wells that are covered with leaves and repair or replace damaged or loose-fitting window wells.
Inside
If the moisture in your basement is unrelated to the weather or seasonal changes, then the problem is likely due to an interior leak or condensation from excess moisture in the air.
- Check plumbing pipes and make sure that there are no leaks from the bathroom or kitchen up above. Have any leaks repaired immediately. Also consider insulating pipes, as cold water pipes may develop condensation on the surface.
- If you see condensation on the walls of your basement, consider covering them with a quality water-resistant paint.
- Avoid using your basement to dry clothes, as this can contribute to the humidity and moisture in the surrounding area. Use your clothes dryer or dry clothing outside when weather permits.
- Make sure that basement appliances, such as your clothes dryer, are properly vented.
- If you have a bathroom in your basement, install an exhaust fan to remove moisture and ensure that the area is properly vented.
- Use a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier is a useful tool for removing excess moisture in a basement area. Depending on the size and layout of your basement, you may need more than one unit.
If you need help getting ready to sell your home this spring, give me a call and we can review which small changes can get you the most from your sale.
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