Is there water in your basement near Baltimore? Having a wet or flooded basement can be a huge hassle. Plus, it can require some expensive repairs and mold cleaning. That’s why basement waterproofing is always a good idea. Keep reading to learn more about why your basement is wet and how waterproofing your basement can prevent future moisture problems.
Basement Moisture
Many basements have a basement moisture problem. One way to identify an issue with moisture in your basement is to use your nose. A constant musty smell often indicates excess moisture in the basement. Wet spots on the floor or walls of the basement can also point to a moisture problem. Basement moisture may seem innocuous, but it can actually lead to structural damage. Use a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air, and consider waterproofing your basement to prevent moisture problems.
Gutter Runoff
Runoff from the gutters outside of your home can also cause your basement to become wet. Fortunately, this is an easy fix—move your gutters so that runoff flows away from the foundation of your home. Clogged gutters can also cause moisture problems in the basement. Without a proper flow down the gutters, excess water can overflow the sides of the gutters and pool around the foundation of your home. If you haven’t installed basement waterproofing, this rainwater will likely seep into your basement over time.
Basement Cracks
Cracks in your basement walls or floor can allow outside water to escape into your basement. Have a professional identify and seal off your basement cracks with a concrete sealer. Water that escapes through cracks in your basement my also indicate groundwater swelling or the need for a sump pump to prevent future moisture issues in the basement.
Leaky Pipes
Pipes can leak for a variety of reasons, including oil age and the movement of earth beneath your home. If these leaky pipes are near or under your basement, they can lead to moisture problems. Have your pipes checked by a professional and consider waterproofing your basement to negate future moisture problems from nearby pipes.