5 Essential Tips To Keep Your Basement Dry

Learn a few hacks to keep your basement dry year-round

Basements are susceptible to moisture, especially during summer and spring. In the rainy season, water can seep through cracks and cause damage to your foundation. Wet spots, moldy growth, and condensation on the basement walls indicate water leakage. We have put together essential tips to help you keep your basement dry.

Insulate Your Cold Water Pipes

• Exposed water pipes in the basement can give rise to several problems. Insulating water pipes is an intelligent move that helps conserve energy. More importantly, it limits the extent of condensation when the humidity is high.

The uninsulated cold water pipes sweat as humidity increases. The humid, wet environment welcomes the growth of mold colonies in your basement. Therefore, it is essential to insulate your cold-water pipes to keep your basement dry.

Reduce The Humidity Levels

• Basements can accumulate moisture, particularly during the summer months. Moreover, the humidity levels are raised, and the excess moisture can cause basement floors to warp and peel off the wall paint. Furthermore, excessive humidity can result in mold growth and many problems.

Therefore, taking the necessary steps to control the humidity levels in your basement is crucial. These problems can be avoided by installing dehumidifiers and exhaust fans as necessary. Circulate fresh air by opening basement windows on sunny days.

Clean Your Gutters And Downspouts Regularly

• Over time, gutters and downspouts can easily clog with tree branches, leaves, twigs, and other debris. The clogged-up gutters hinder the flow of water. The water will flow through the sides of the roof and pool around the foundation, eventually finding its way toward the basement.

Inspect and regularly clean your gutters and downspouts to prevent water from damaging your foundation. In addition, poorly angled downspouts fail to direct the rainwater away from your home. Correcting the angle or placing downspout lines in the ground can help eliminate this problem.

Direct Water Away From The Foundation

• Sometimes, landscaping can cause water to accumulate around the foundation. Constructing a downward slope to direct water away from your basement is essential. However, some homes are built without a downward slope, or the slope changes to a less angular surface over time. When this happens, water will move toward your basement instead of flowing away from it.

During heavy rains keeping an eye on the foundation wall can save you from trouble. If rainwater isn’t directed away from the foundation, improve the grading by getting landscaping done. Mark the areas pulling water toward your basement and have them filled up. Furthermore, ground the area around your foundation with gravel, sand, or small rocks to absorb excess water.

Waterproof Your Basement

• Take steps to waterproof your basement, especially if it is a furnished living space. Install proper draining systems and keep them in good shape. Hire professionals for basement waterproofing. Professionals will apply a waterproof sealant on your basement walls and floor. A thick coat of sealant on the walls will prevent condensation from gathering on your water-resistant walls.

Additionally, seal all the cracks in the basement floor. The heaving cracks require professional attention; otherwise, they cause structural damage to your property. Applying a waterproof sealant on the basement floor can prevent leaks from coming through and keep your basement dry and fresh all year round.

If you require basement waterproofing services, don’t hesitate to book an appointment with Crack X. We make sure your basement is waterproofed and in optimum condition before you start your finishing project. Our specialists will inspect your property and provide the best solution and advice regarding basement finishing. Call us at 877-727-2259. We are a civil structures repair company operating in Maine and New Hampshire.