Moisture Maladies
How to Avoid a Damp Basement
When homeowners were asked, 55% of them said they have lived in a house with a wet basement. Over half of all homeowners have lived in a home with a wet basement.
That is a sad fact. But, the good news is that most water damage can be fixed if its identified. To the untrained eye, a damp basement is sometimes difficult to recognize. We’ll give you some clues to spot a water issue below. Once moisture problems are identified, a professional will know the best route for you to take to solve them.
Look For Mold Growth
A moisture filled basement provides an ideal breeding ground for an array of mold strains. Mold can grow anywhere that provides humidity and moisture, so a damp basement is perfect. Once mold grows, its spores start permeating your home’s atmosphere. Mold can cause respiratory issues. These are some simple ways to keep mold at bay:
- Dehumidify: Keeping your basement (and the rest of your house) at low standing humidity is a good way to avoid mold. It doesn’t like dry environments, so even something as simple as a dehumidifier will go a long way in promoting a mold free environment.
- Seal your house: This is applied to basements just as much as to the rest of your house. Pay attention to areas that might let moisture in like high traffic doors, windows, vents, etc. Letting moisture in from outside will only add to the difficulty of keeping a dry house.
- Danger areas: Basements are far and away the most common areas moisture and dampness cause mold issues, but not the only place. Bathrooms and kitchens are also notorious moisture filled spots that mold loves living in. Be sure that while you’re keeping your eye on your basement that you aren’t neglecting those areas
Protect Your Investment
Damp basements are just one of the many obnoxious maladies that plague homeowners and we feel your pain. Your home is one of the biggest investments you’ll ever make, so protecting it is nothing short of putting your effort to good use.
Do you have mold and aren’t sure how stop it? We’d love to hear from you on our blog… https://www.facebook.com/LeakDetective/