Mark Roemer Oakland Shares Causes of Basement Moisture and How to Fix Them

Introduction

According to Mark Roemer Oakland, a wet basement is a universal problem that most homeowners need to deal with at least once in their lifetime. Basement moisture can be the result of many things. Fortunately, here you get to know about those factors and how to fix the issue. Let’s figure out what causes basement moisture and how to fix them:

The Discussion

  1. Interior water leak – This is one of the most obvious reasons for a wet basement and that’s why most people ignore it unless they have visible signs. However, leaks can be sneaky and that’s why you should check your basement thoroughly. It may be from a bad pipe, the dishwasher, the washing machine, toilet, or sink that is located inside or above your basement. If you notice moisture on the roof of the basement with the kitchen or bathroom above, then an internal leak is the likely culprit. Fortunately fixing it is easy. Find the location of the leak and DIY with plumbing tape and other tools or call a professional. 
  1. Defective downspouts and gutters – Gutters and downspouts take water away from your home so that the foundation doesn’t get dampened. If there are missing gutters and downspouts or if they get damaged, rainwater will be directed to your foundation and even accumulate on the soil surrounding your home. When water gets to the soil around your home, it may leak into your basement as well. To fix this problem, you need to install gutters on every 50feet of the roof’s boundary and use extenders to drain water at least a few feet away from your home. It’s also important to keep your gutters clean so that they don’t get clogged, accumulate water, and get damaged.
  1. Foundation cracks – Cracks in the foundation ensure basement moisture. Sometimes elevated water levels and excessive dampening can even be the cause of cracks in the foundation walls. This usually happens when the foundation joists aren’t properly tethered and allow for movement of the walls. To fix this issue you need to fix the cracks in the foundation and also take care of any structural problems so that the same problem doesn’t repeat itself in the future.
  1. Basement condensation – Basement condensation occurs when moist and warm air enters the cold basement and condenses on the walls, floor, and roof. The resultant moisture dampens your basement and can cause severe damage if ignored. However, this is one of the easiest problems to fix. You can install an exhaust fan to push out air and most of the moisture along with it and increase air circulation in your basement. You can also go the expensive route and insulate your basement walls.

Conclusion

Mark Roemer Oakland suggests that you use this article to figure out the reason behind the moisture in your basement and apply solutions accordingly. A wet basement isn’t just inconvenient but can be hazardous as well and pose a risk to your health.

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