How a Home’s History Caused Its Basement Water and Humidity Problems

Written by Expert Contributor David Linn Cook of Weatherproofing Plus, Inc.

Many area homeowners have basement, waterproofing and humidity-related problems even though they may already have a functioning sump pump with a French drain. The sump pumps were working hard during this past September's rude entry into fall, with some local areas getting 5–8 inches of rain in a 12-hour period. There was no way the sump pumps could keep up with that much rain!

What separated the dry homes from the wet homes was simply preparation. Regular property maintenance, fall rakeouts, spring lawn cutting, and of course roof and gutter guard sweeping all play a key role in that preparation.

One local homeowner had been experiencing water and humidity build-up in his basement even though he had it waterproofed just nine years ago. His basement issues had continued despite having a dehumidifier, water-tight windows and a backup sump pump. Upon closer inspection, it appeared that the screen vent had never been opened, which would have helped significantly to reduce and control humidity in the basement.

Another cause of this homeowner’s basement moisture problems was that this 1940s depression-era home was built by a local mason who had coated the foundation walls with a homemade parging (similar to stucco) that was a mixture of clay, mud, sand and lime. Now, some 80 years later, that mixture was disintegrating into dust. A third defect was the rather “thrifty” roof design: short roof joists that created zero overhang at the roof eaves. Every heavy rain resulted in water overflowing down the walls and causing ongoing damage to the basement’s original stone walls.

Home weatherization and waterproofing companies are among the very few contractors who encourage homeowners to do some DIY. Reputable contractors will often suggest that the homeowner make a few minor fixes on their own, such as correcting the exterior perimeter grading. In this way, the contractor can help the homeowner save some money. If the fix is beyond what the homeowner can do on their own, that’s where weatherization and waterproofing experts come in to work their magic.

Proper correction of water problems is essential in order to have a safe and healthy home and basement. It begins with a thorough inspection and taking a complete history of the home and its maintenance. This way, the contractor or homeowner will know exactly what direction to take. Remember, it’s important to make significant upgrades and fixes before the storms arrive!

Stop Hiding Your Basement. Make It Your Other Family Room!

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• Basement Waterproofi ng • Waterproofi ng Coatings • Foundation & Crack Repair • Sump Pump Install/Service • Mold Remediation • Humidity Control Management

David Linn Cook 30 Year MN Resident Weatherization Expert

610-325-0596 • FREE Estimates • www.WeatherProofi ng-Plus.com