In part one of this two-part blog series, we looked over some of the most common causes of moisture finding its way into your basement. There are several ways this can happen, some obvious and some less so, but knowing how and why they’re happening will often be beneficial to resolving the issue and removing any water from your basement area.
At Crown Finish, we offer comprehensive basement services to our Orem clients, solutions that range from basement remodeling to general upkeep and maintenance. What are some of the other possible basement moisture causes you should be aware of, and how can they be prevented or remedied? Here’s a rundown.
Window Well Issues
In some cases, your window wells may be the issue. These are the areas around your windows that are slightly recessed, and they’re intended to protect your windows from any water or moisture that might collect outside. However, if these window wells aren’t properly installed or maintained, they can actually wind up doing the opposite.
Water can pool in your window well, and if there’s nowhere for that water to go, it can damage your window or seep into your basement. Make sure that your window wells are properly graded so that water will run away from your house, and ensure that they’re free of any debris that could clog them up. You should also check your window wells regularly to make sure they’re in good condition.
Sump Pit Problems
If your home has a sump pit, which is a hole in your basement that’s used to collect water, it’s possible for that pit to become clogged. When this happens, the water has nowhere to go and will start to seep into your basement. To prevent this from happening, make sure that your sump pit is clear of any debris, and have it checked on a regular basis.
Improper Ventilation
Another possible source of moisture is humid air, and if your basement isn’t properly ventilated, that humid air can lead to condensation. This can cause water to form on your walls and floors, and over time, it can damage your basement or lead to mold growth.
To prevent this from happening, make sure that your basement is well-ventilated. You can do this by opening windows or using a dehumidifier. You should also avoid storing any items in your basement that could produce humidity, such as laundry machines or hot water heaters.
As you can see, there are actually several different possible sources of moisture in your basement. By being aware of these sources, you can take steps to prevent them from causing problems in your home.
If you need help with any basement waterproofing or moisture prevention issues, be sure to contact Crown Finishing today. We offer a wide range of services to our Orem clients, and we’ll be happy to assist you here.