How to beat the heat in your wet basement
The summer sun is on its way and that is enough to warm anyone's heart. But as the temperatures outside increases, so too does basement humidity - this could be disastrous for your wet basement.
Sure, basement flooding can occur year-round, but there is nothing like summer humidity to really cause issues in your below-grade space.
The Summer & Your Wet Basement
On a typical, hot summer day of 80 degrees, outdoor humidity is about 65 percent. When this hot air enters your basement, it is cooled to 65 degrees with a relative humidity level of 98 percent.
So, why should this high relative humidity concern you? Well, a relative humidity standard of 70 percent or over creates the perfect conditions for mold growth. Also, when this warm air hits cold appliances, condensation will occur, which creates moisture.
Signs of a Basement Humidity Issue
Once your humid basement starts growing mold and becomes wet, a heap of whole-house issues could occur, including structural damage, poor indoor air quality, and the spread of mold. Plus, your basement appliances
will lose efficiency, become damaged, and begin to rust.
According to the American Society of Home Inspectors, 60 percent of U.S. homes have wet basement issues. So, if you have noticed any of these symptoms in your basement, it is important to act quickly before these damages occur:
- Crystalline deposits
- Pooling water stains
- Leaky appliances, walls, floors, & windows
- Visible mildew & mold growth
- Basement wall & floor cracks
- Musty odors
- Concrete spalling
Controlling Basement Humidity & Moisture
Sealing cracks & crevices: If your basement has cracks and crevices, then that is the perfect way for outside air and water to seep in. By replacing outdated egress windows, sealing floor cracks, and repairing wall cracks, your basement will be sealed off from any outside elements.- Installing new flooring: If your basement is unfinished and has a dirt floor, this is another opportunity for outside water and air to enter your home. By installing waterproof flooring, you can rest assured it is effectively sealed.
- Finding an energy-efficient dehumidifier: In order to effectively combat basement humidity, a proper dehumidifier is necessary. An efficient basement dehumidifier will regulate humidity levels in your below-grade space, protecting it from moisture and the damages that can occur as a result.
Start your basement waterproofing project today!
We at HomePro Match understand that no homeowner wants to deal with their humid, nasty, wet basement. That is why we have pre-screened the best in the business to do so for you.
Our basement waterproofing contractors provide exclusive, proven solutions guaranteed to control humidity and moisture in your below-grade space. Start your basement waterproofing project by finding a contractor near you today!
