QUICK WATER REPAIRS

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One of the major factors contributing to a wet basement is the lack of overland flow routes for storm drainage during extreme storms. In addition, the lack of proper controls on your property, such as downspout disconnection and proper lot grading are also contributing factors.

These are some simple steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of a wet basement.

1. check for and fix leaks in walls, floors, windows and foundations
2. clear overflowing eavestroughs and downspouts of leaves and other debris that prevent proper drainage
3. make sure your disconnected downspouts are draining properly, ideally 1.8 meters (six feet) from your basement walls
4. plant trees and other native species away from your home
5. consider soft-surface landscaping that allows storm water to soak into ground rather than run directly into the local sewer systems (ie. Increased sodded areas, porous pavement)
6. check with your insurance provider to make sure you are covered – most homes are not!

Curing Wet Basement Blues

For some homeowners, a wet, damp basement is as sure a sign of spring as the first tulips blooming in the garden.

Some basements actually flood with water during heavy rains. Other signs of dampness may include excessive condensation on windows resulting in frame rot or simply a musty smell caused by the mould and mildew that thrive in a damp environment. Efflorescence, a whitish powder that appears just above ground level on the outside walls or at the base of the inside basement wall, is a sure sign of dampness. The first step in curing chronic basement dampness is discovering the source of water leakage. Here are some of the common causes and cures for a wet / damp basement.

Interior Dampness

Condensation within the basement can come from a number of sources including washing machines, improperly vented dryers, a basement shower, sweating cold water pipes and leaking pipes. Condensation can also form when warm basement air comes in contact with cold outside walls and basement floors.

To counter condensation problems, consider lining the walls with a layer of rigid-foam board insulation. Wrap plumbing pipes with isulation or snap on performed foam pipe insulators. The use of a dehumidifier is effective in drawing excess moisture from a damp basement. Open the windows occasionally to allow air to circulate. Consider installing a basement vent.

Improper Surface Drainage

If the soil around the foundation is saturated, the excess water will find its way into the basement through cracks in the walls and floor, or by seeping through untreated walls.

Make sure the soil is graded away from the basement wall at the rate of about a half inch slope per foot. Check that the gutters are clear of debris so that the rainfall is not overflowing and running down the wall of the house. Downspouts should direct the runoff from the roof and discharge it well away from the foundation. If the downspout is not doing its job, water will pool up along the foundation wall and eventually find its way into the basement.

Discourage the growth of clinging vines along foundation walls and locate foundation plantings (shrubs, etc.) well enough away from the walls so air can circulate around the house and through the basement. Keep the bottom gravel surfaces of sindow wells clear of debris.

If your basement is damp, it is wise to call a professional for a site inspection. Leaving the problem untreated can damage the structure and the resale value of your home.