Keeping your basement dry all year long is no easy task. Heavy rainfall or melting snow can be a big problem – it creates a lot of moisture and could damage your foundation or cause mould to grow. This could lead to thousands of dollars in damages and a lot of headaches. However, there are a few strategies you can try to keep your basement as dry as possible.
Look Out for Signs of Basement Moisture
Take the time to learn the warning signs of mould growth so you can stop damage before it gets out of control. Watch out for mould or mildew, musty smells, stained or discoloured drywall selections, or puddles.
As a homeowner, there are many strategies you can use to waterproof your basement like adding insulation or running a dehumidifier around the clock. But if major damage is already done, you should contact a professional basement restoration service.
Seal Walls and Floor
One way to prevent moisture is to seal your floors and walls which creates a shield between your concrete and leaks. This is only preventative and should be done on basements before water damage occurs.
The most used basement sealing material is caulking made from silicone. You can do this on your own, but if you hire a professional you can expect to pay between $3 to $10 per square foot.
Use a Dehumidifier
Do you have moisture in your basement floor? Dehumidifiers are highly effective at keeping moisture out of your basement walls and carpets. The appliance works to pull moisture directly out of the air and it’s emptied into a bucket.
For continuous operation, most models of dehumidifiers allow you to run a hose from the machine directly into a drain. Don’t forget to clean your dehumidifier’s air filters regularly.
Insulate Pipes and Basement Walls
On a hot or humid day, pipes can develop a lot of condensation. Adding insulation to these pipes can reduce the amount of moisture dripping into the basement.
Besides, insulating pipes can also conserve energy and save money on energy bills. Most people prefer an affordable foam. You can tackle this project yourself, or you can also contact a local contractor for help.
Clean the Gutter
Got a wet basement floor? If you neglect to clean out your gutters, they will overflow letting water drip right beside your home and possibly penetrate the foundation and ultimately your basement.
Clean gutters that allow the water to flow freely and away from the home will go a long way to preventing excessive moisture from getting into your basement.
Contact Us
Is your basement damaged from excessive moisture or simply in need of a major renovation? Moose Basements offers all of our clients first-class services from consultation to the execution of your basement renovation. We’ll help you devise a strategy and design that effectively eliminates any moisture from entering your basement with excellent damp basement solutions. A basement renovation is a perfect way to add more livable space and increase the value of your home. Contact us today for a free consultation!