Problems with a wet foundation tend to run higher than other physical problems with a house. Damp or wet basements can be an extremely challenging problem to fix. Most basements are built into or partially into the ground. This can lead to the walls and flooring absorbing the moisture from outside, ultimately producing such problems as: water stains, cracks, odors, mold infestation, house dust mites, and etc. When buying a house it is highly recommended to hire an inspector to assess the structure of the house and give you a list problems and potential fixes that they can see wrong before buying the property.
Potential Causes
Inadequate gutter system
Improper lawn grading or landscaping
Leaves or debris - may have clogged gutters or window wells
Windows and Doors – Check for leaks and gaps.
HVAC System – Check for proper drainage. One of the functions of a proper heating and air conditioning system is to reduce ambient air moisture level throughout the house.
Condensation – can be from hot and cold water pipes or outside moisture
Leaky Pipes – including ones that are behind the walls can be hard to detect.
Heavy Rainfall
Vents and Chimneys – These should have appropriate hoods and exhaust to the outside. They need to maintained or checked regularly so they are in constant working order.
Signs to look for:
Bad odor - excessive moisture creates and unmistakable musty smell.
Water Stains – from leaky pipes or cracks in the exterior walls
Cracks - in the foundation and in the exterior walls.
Windows and Doors – Check for leaks and gaps.
Mold- can range in color. Such as black, pink, brown, yellow, white. Even if the mold in your house is not the toxic variety
it is important to eradicate it and fix the source of the problem. Mold can cause deterioration of the house and can affect you and your loved ones health.
Efflorescence
Spalling
Leaks – can come in around windows and doors.
Simple Solutions
Dehumidifier- this is a good immediate and temporary fix for slight dampness.
Cover exposed earth areas with plastic sheeting to help keep the moisture levels down.
Make sure your downspouts are pointed away from the house
Clean and maintain your gutters on a regular basis
Add more ventilation – Opening windows and doors on nice days can help with letting moisture escape.
Professional Help
Insulation- Adding insulation behind the walls in your basement can reduce condensation by making cold surfaces slightly warmer
Sealing the ductwork – HV/AC systems can leak conditioned air wasting your money and can let moisture escape.
Making sure all holes and joints in the ductwork are sealed can help with this problem
Wrapping pipes – It is a good idea to have foam insulation covering the hot and cold water pipes to help reduce the condensation as well as conserve energy.
Waterproofing
Sump Pump – Install or maintain a sump pump. This device can pump water away from the foundation to the street up to 20 feet away
Replace windows and doors that are old or deteriorated that are not able to be water/moisture resistant anymore.
Gradation of the yard – make sure water runoff flows away from the foundation of your home.
Weather-Stripping – Old or improperly installed weather-stripping can let in moisture and leaks.
A home can be flooded for a variety of reasons. It is extremely important to act quickly and thoroughly if your home is flooded. Make sure you know where your shut off valves are. Make sure there are no exposed electrical wires or cords in the standing water. Immediately remove standing water and all damp materials. Hire a qualified inspector to inspect and assess the damage and help you prevent further damage and do necessary repairs. By addressing the problem quickly and appropriately you can greatly minimize further damage and future problems.
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