Five Things to Know About a Web Basement

Dampness in your Grand Rapids basement can be more problematic than you think. Not only is it posing risks to your home, but it is also posing some major risks to your health. Besides the musty smell moisture in your basement it can create, moisture is the perfect breeding ground for hazardous mold and mildew. Take a look below to discover 5 of the most important things about a wet basement.

Signs of Basement Moisture

There are some telltale signs that your basement may be suffering from excessive moisture. Some common red flags of basement moisture are:

• Water trickling down walls
• Puddles of water on the floor
• Dampness in the air
• Musty smell
• Mold and mildew growth
• Stains on concrete walls and floors
• Condensation, especially during summer

What Causes Basement Moisture?

So now that you know what to look for to determine if your basement has too much moisture, what causes it in the first place? There are many underlying factors that could be causing the moisture in your Grand Rapids basement. In order to correct the issue, it’s essential to figure out what exactly is causing all the unwanted moisture to gather in your basement. Wet Basement problems come from interior sources, as well as exterior sources. Some of these sources include:

• Rain and groundwater
• Condensation
• Uneven grading
• Defective rain gutters
• Flawed window wells

How Does Moisture Get Into Your Basement?

Now that you understand where the moisture is coming from, let’s talk about how the moisture actually makes its way into your basement. Moisture is able to sneak into your basement through a process called capillary suction. This is when water moves through porous materials, like the foundation walls in your basement. So if your home has uneven grading, defective rain gutters, or other issues, the water will be able to seep through your home’s foundation and create moisture in your basement.

The Dangers of Basement Moisture

Moisture in your basement doesn’t just damage your home, it damages your health, too. Moisture in your basement can stain your walls and floors, which is especially problematic for those with finished basements. On top of that, this moisture allows for mold and mildew growth. From nasal congestion to eye and skin irritation, mold and mildew can create a wide range of health issues for you and your family.

Basement Moisture Solutions

If you do a quick Google search, you’ll find dozens of do-it-yourself solutions for getting rid of the moisture in your Grand Rapids basement. While these methods can be helpful, they don’t always do the trick. Instead, you can sleep easy and have professionals do it for you. Contact us today and we’ll help you get to the root of your basement moisture and come up with the best solution to fix it and prevent it from happening again.

If your basement is wet or leaking, don't delay! For more information on the professional and affordable basement waterproofing services offered by Michigan Basement Waterproofing, contact us here today!