The
best way to approach any construction related problem is to find a
long-lasting solution to it. Similarly, with moisture problem in any
part of the house, especially the basement, the best approach is to
remove or control the source of moisture.
A
homeowner does not use the basement as much as any other part of the
home. Usually, there are recurring problems of damage in the basement
due to moisture. Excessive moisture can destroy the walls. It can cause
the growth of microbes such as molds and mildew and lead to health
problems. In short, it will kill the look of the basement and destroy
the foundation of your home as well.
Moisture
problem in the basement can be solved through a planned way. The first
step is to understand the cause of moisture. You need to analyze where
the water is coming from, and what mechanisms permit it to enter the
basement. Once you know the cause, only then you will be able to solve
the problem efficiently.
Causes of Moisture in the Basement and their Solutions
1. Improper Grading
During
grading of the construction site, if the slope is inclined towards the
walls of your home, then water will definitely get directed towards the
basement. As a result, the soil used during the construction process
will get loose and settle around your home.
Solution:
Fill the slope with a lot of dry sand so that it directs water away
from the foundation walls. Once the soil takes the place of water, the
basement can remain protected from moisture.
2. Structural Defects
Cracks
in the concrete blocks can lead to accumulation of moisture. Also, if
floor joints are not properly connected to the foundation wall, it can
lead to movement of the wall and allow water to enter the basement.
Solution:
You must take utmost care while building the foundation and footings.
Also ensure proper connection between the foundation wall and structure
above it. If the foundation of your home is damaged, you must contact a foundation repair contractor and obtain his expert help.
3. Defective Drainage
Missing
or defective gutters and downspouts from the roof redirect water
directly to the foundation walls. Also, if a downspout has no extender,
then a huge amount of rainwater will be deposited at a single location
near the base of the foundation.
Solution:
Downspouts should be fitted correctly at required places where roof
water gets collected. Take care of leakage from downspouts using correct
waterproof sealers. Extensions, if any, should discharge water at least
a few feet away from the walls of your home. If possible, build
concrete slopes around the foundation walls to avoid water collection.
4. Poor Construction of Window Wells
An
improperly constructed window well can be the source of moisture
problem in the basement. It will direct water towards the foundation,
rather than away from it. It might also lead to a situation of severe
flooding.
Solution:
If you want to build a window well, make sure that it is covered
properly so that it doesn’t allow water to come inside the basement. You
must check the cracks in the window well and seal them regularly.
Waterproofing Solution to end the Moisture Problem in the Basement
It
is a good decision to manage a moisture problem with waterproofing
solutions. You can select interior waterproofing solutions or choose
exterior waterproofing solutions to keep moisture away from the
basement. If the moisture problem is not severe, you can opt for interior waterproofing solutions as they are less expensive.
If
you do not address the moisture problem in the basement, it can prove
to be a silent killer for your home. So, follow a systematic approach of
identifying the causes and find relevant solutions to them. It will
lead you to a moisture-free home.
A
waterproofing contractor can ensure long-last solution to the moisture
problem in the basement. If you want to get rid of damp floor and leaky
walls, get in touch with Pour Concrete. The general contractor will
provide effective waterproofing solutions as well as take care of foundation repair in GTA.
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