Q. Our basement has a “damp” feel and smell most of the time. We want to eliminate the cause of this dampness. Any ideas?

A: First, you have to determine if the cause of your basement dampness is seepage or condensation. Dampness from seepage may be due to actual water penetration through the walls or floor. It can also be due to moisture retained in the foundation material. Condensation is due to high levels of water vapor in the air that condenses on the colder foundation or other surfaces in the basement. To assist in trying to determine the possible cause of your problem, we recommend cutting two one-square foot sections of heavy plastic (a heavy duty garbage bag will do).

Tape all sides of a square to a dry section of the basement floor and to any basement wall below grade level. Leave them in place for three days. At that time, pick up the plastic squares. If the floor square is wet, some seepage is probably occurring. If the underside of the wall square is wet, the problem may only be condensation. Seepage can sometimes be corrected by sealing the walls and floors. If that doesn’t do it, more involved work may be needed including perimeter grading and diverting water away from the house. Condensation is a function of too much humidity. Improving ventilation and, if necessary, installing a dehumidifier would be in order.

Connecticut Homes For Sale