Humidity in Your Basement
Humidity in your basement can make the space feel like a sauna. While this isn’t uncommon, it is a cause for concern. Humidity can end up damaging important structures in your basement or cause health risks like mold growth.
As homeowners ourselves, we understand how frustrating a humid basement can be. Our team is committed to providing the best basement waterproofing services in West Virginia.
After reading through this page, you’ll be equipped to stop humidity at the source. Basement Authority of West Virginia has you covered!
What is the Source of Humidity?
Basements don’t become humid out of the blue—there must be a source of moisture. Typically, water gets in through wall cracks or leaky windows.
But there’s often more to it than that; let’s examine several factors that contribute to basement humidity, so you know what to look out for.
Groundwater Seepage
When groundwater builds up around your basement, it slowly seeps through a permeable surface like concrete. West Virginia receives an above average amount of annual rainfall (about 45 inches), making it a common issue for homeowners in our state.
Obviously, groundwater fluctuates with the seasons. Our rainiest months are usually in late Summer, so look out for leaking after a heavy storm. Keep in mind, melting snow also contributes to groundwater.
Absent or Faulty Vapor Barriers
Vapor barriers are meant to stop incoming humidity. However, the presence of any ruptures, gaps, or unattached portions in an existing barrier renders it ineffective, akin to a perforated raincoat.
However, many homes lack vapor barriers altogether. Seek a professional basement waterproofing service to install a durable vapor barrier in your dwelling.
Cracks in Walls and Floors
Cracks in the basement’s walls and floors are entry points for water. Often, these cracks are scarcely the width of a coin. However, they can grow bigger over time and allow even more water inside.
Continuous water penetration through such cracks will gradually compromise the structural integrity of the walls. Even minor drips will contribute to humidity over time.
Inadequate Ventilation
Poor airflow allows humidity to build up. Many basements, surrounded by concrete and with limited ventilation, are more susceptible to high humidity levels.
Without sufficient ventilation or dehumidifiers, moisture remains trapped and could even lead to musty odors.
Is Stopping Basement Humidity Possible?
Yes! Installing basement waterproofing solutions like vapor barriers, sump pumps, and interior drainage can maintain a comfortable humidity level in the basement.
For example, our internal drainage system guides water away from the walls, preventing moisture accumulation. Together with dehumidifiers and vapor barriers, waterproofing creates a dry and stable basement environment.
Strategies to Combat Basement Dampness
To permanently expel dampness and musty odors, adhere to the following steps:
Install a Dehumidifier
- Avoid consumer-grade dehumidifiers.
- Connect professional dehumidifiers to drainage.
- Our dehumidifiers are self-draining and capable of extracting up to 100 pints of water daily.
Repair Cracks and Leaks
- Identify and seal any cracks with wall repair options like wall anchors.
- Address roof and plumbing leaks promptly.
- Resolve structural issues through professional basement repair.
Apply Vapor Barriers
- Install durable vapor barriers to stop moisture on walls and floors.
- Select materials resistant to wear and tear.
- Seal all seams meticulously during application to block moisture ingress.
Improve Drainage
- Ensure proper sloping of the ground away from the foundation.
- Incorporate internal drainage systems to reroute groundwater and seepage effectively.
- Use gravel beds and perforated pipes for efficient water collection and drainage.
Upgrade Sump Pumps
- Maintain pumps in optimal condition to extract water from drainage systems.
- Install new, reliable sump pumps with backup units and battery power to avoid flooding during power failures.
- Link pumps to internal drainage systems for effective water diversion.
Our expert team at Basement Authority of West Virginia can proficiently implement these solutions, utilizing superior products and methods to tackle dampness at its source, ensuring superior performance and reliability compared to conventional dehumidifiers.
Why Addressing Basement Dampness is Urgent
Ignoring basement dampness is akin to neglecting a festering wound. Immediate action is imperative to avoid long-term repercussions:
- Spreading of mold spores affects indoor air quality and causes allergic reactions.
- Persistent damp odors cling to belongings and furnishings.
- Ongoing moisture corrodes metal pipes and damages wooden structures, undermining the structural stability of the foundation.
- Delaying intervention leads to more damage, leading to costly repairs and replacements.
- Increased energy consumption due to overworking HVAC systems to combat high humidity levels.
Basement Authority of West Virginia is committed to providing efficient service so you can get back to enjoying your basement as soon as possible. But the process starts with making an appointment for a free inspection from our team—don’t delay!
Reach Out to Basement Authority of West Virginia for Permanent Solutions to Humidity
It’s time to stop simply “dealing with” humidity in your basement. We can stop it with cutting-edge waterproofing solutions and techniques that actually deal with the problem at its root. Contact us for a complimentary inspection and quote. Let’s create a dry, fresh basement together!
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132 Rocky Step Rd.,
Scott Depot, WV 25560