You may be wondering, “Is my wet basement dangerous?” Well, first, you need to determine the cause. If your basement is constantly wet, you may have a subsurface water problem. In these cases, a few solutions can help.
Health Hazards Of A Wet Basement
A wet basement is not only a structural problem, but it can also be a health hazard. A damp environment provides the perfect breeding ground for harmful bacteria and fungi. These organisms can cause serious health problems, including respiratory infections. Additionally, standing water can cause electrical shock. If you want to prevent these health hazards, waterproofing your basement is a top priority.
Not only can you experience health problems from water damage in your basement, but you could also encounter rodent infestations. Rats and mice like warm, moist environments and can carry a range of illnesses. These rodents may also damage your property, including your electrical cables and furniture.
Signs Of A Wet Basement
First, check for water stains on the walls. These may resemble a spill in the kitchen, but could actually be from seepage of leaky windows. Another sign of water damage is efflorescence. The salt deposits left behind by evaporated water often sparkle in the light and are an indication of water intrusion.
The humidity level in the basement should also be monitored. This is an early warning sign of a wet basement. Excess moisture in the air will create a musty smell. This odor can be a red flag, as it can be dangerous for your health.
If the area is damp, mold, mildew, and fungus can grow and cause health problems. Also, standing water is a potential electrical hazard. If you notice these signs, you need to act quickly to find a contractor who can fix the problem.
Causes Of A Wet Basement
A wet basement is a serious problem, and it can be caused by a number of factors. One of the biggest causes of a wet basement is a high water table. A high water table occurs when the local water table is higher than the surface of the ground. This can lead to flooding in the basement.
The most effective and inexpensive solution is to stop the source of the excessive moisture.
This could be humidity from the kitchen, clothes dryer, or bathroom. Keeping these items away from the basement will help prevent excessive moisture and mold growth.
Prevention Of A Wet Basement
Fortunately, there are many ways to prevent a wet basement from becoming dangerous. The first step is to make sure that the ground around the home slopes away from the home. This can prevent water from seeping into the basement, and it will also prevent condensation from forming. As a rule, the dirt around your house should slope away from the house at a minimum of six feet. Another step is to check your gutters and downspouts.
Lastly, check the foundation of your home. (This is most often best done with the help of a foundation repair professional like us here at Smoky Mountain Crawl Space Systems. We have many years of experience in what to look for and where.)
If the foundation is damaged, the water can seep up through cracks in the foundation and into the basement. If you find a serious leak, shut off the power to the basement and remove any furniture, clothing, or other belongings from the floor.
Fixing A Wet Basement
A wet basement can be caused by hydrostatic pressure. This is when water builds up outside the basement walls until they can no longer support it. This can cause a leak in the basement as well as flooding. It can also ruin carpets, flooring, wallpaper, and other items in the house. If the water is allowed to stay for too long, it can lead to mold growth.
Fortunately, there are several effective ways to solve the problem without having to repair or replace your basement. These solutions are offered by experts at waterproofing and foundation repair companies in your local area. Give Smoky Mountain Crawl Space Systems a call at (865) 299-2315 for more information about how we can help restore, repair, or replace your basement features to increase your quality of life and improve your living conditions.
