Basement leakage is the most common problem found in houses and cottages, and over 90% of all basements are found to leak and suffer damage at one time or another. Evidence of moisture penetration can be found in almost every house. A house or cottage with water problems does not necessarily mean it was poorly constructed. Water can appear in even the best-built home.
Not all basement leakage problems are easily solvable, but the majority of leakage problems can be solved by directing surface water away from the building, re-grading around the foundation and/or using downspout extension to force rainwater to flow away from the house or cottage.
Warning signs of water leakage:
• Mould and mildew: Fungus that grows in damp dark areas and causes discoloration and odours.
• Musty odours: This could be the result of the decay process from mould and dry rot.
• Peeling paint: Water may leak behind a wall.
• Damp spots on walls: Water has absorbed through your walls.
• White substance on basement walls: This is a chemical breakdown of the bonding agent that holds your walls together. The white substance is a sign of possible structural deterioration.
• Cracked walls: Should need to be inspected to determine the exact cause.
• Rust on appliances or furnaces: Check behind for signs of pooling or leaking water.
• Dry rot: Black fungus grows mostly on walls or wooden surfaces, causing wood to decay.
Why is waterproofing important?
A wet basement dramatically reduces the value of your home or cottage. Studies show that many people won’t even consider buying a property with water leakage.
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(taken from Pillar to Post blog)
This entry was posted on March 21, 2019 by Jim and Iris
Lesley-Anne Goodfellow