How Important is a Dry Basement to a Healthy Home? However, basements are particularly susceptible to water damage, which can lead to substantial structural and health issues. Early detection of any problems in the basement will save not just time, but also money and frustration. We at Santos Water Service & Drain have traced the crucial signs your basement needs to be waterproofed.
Moist or Wet Walls: One of the most noticeable indications that your basement is experiencing water problems is damp walls. Water stains, rust, or visible moisture on walls can be an indication of a foundation problem. It indicates that the foundation is leaking water and must be repaired to prevent further damage.
Musty smell: A stale, musty odor in your basement is your first sign of excess water. Mold and mildew growth are typically the cause of this smell, as they thrive in moist conditions. Disregarding this cue and not taking action can jeopardize your health, especially if you are allergic or have respiratory problems.
Growth of Mold and Mildew: Mold and mildew are significant issues. That doesn’t mean the basement is an easy place to store fungus. They are, in fact, not just bad for your health, but also detrimental to your structure. Waterproofing your basement can also help prevent the growth of mold and mildew.
Efflorescence: The name of a white powdery substance that builds up on basement walls is efflorescence. It is the result of water creeping through walls and carrying with it soluble salts. Efflorescence isn’t harmful to you, your family, or your household pets; however, it is an indication that water is seeping through your basement walls and needs to be addressed immediately.
Cracks in the Walls or Floor: There’s more to a basement wall or floor crack than you can see. They’d be a likely path for water to flow into your house. While small hairline cracks may seem relatively harmless in the short term, over time, they can become larger and allow even more water to enter, so repairing these cracks and considering waterproofing to prevent similar issues in the future is essential.
Puddles or Pooling of Water: One of the most telltale signs of water entering your basement is the presence of puddles or pooling water on the floor. It tends to occur after heavy rain or snowmelt. It may be small, but water is manageable; it doesn’t take much water to become a problem.
Foundation Problems: Cracked, flaking, or crumbling concrete on your foundation walls or slab is a sign that you have a serious water intrusion problem. Water penetration will compromise the structural integrity of your foundation, and the cost to fix it can be substantial. Waterproofing ensures your foundation remains protected from additional water damage.
Peeling Paint or Wallpaper: Peeling, bubbling, or blistering paint or wallpaper in your basement indicates that moisture has become trapped beneath it. It will ruin the finish, but more importantly, suggests a deeper moisture issue that should be addressed through proper waterproofing.
Elevated Humidity: If your basement’s humidity is consistently high, it may be due to water infiltration. However, higher freestanding moisture promotes the growth of dangerous mold, mildew, and other moisture-related issues. A dehumidifier can alleviate the problem, but a permanent solution must also address the root cause, which is inadequate waterproofing.
Rusty Metal Fixtures: Any rusting on metal supports, pipes, or appliances in your basement is a sign of excessive moisture. Rust means the water is always there and constantly eating away. Waterproofing your home can help to stop further rust and preserve the integrity of your home’s foundation.
If you ignore the symptoms of basement water problems, the resulting damage can be devastating and costly. If you’ve experienced any of these warning signs, you should consider basement waterproofing. At Santos Water Service & Drain, we offer sensible, affordable automatic or manual water cut-off systems that protect your basement from water damage. Contact us now to schedule an inspection and protect your home against the threat of water damage.
Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are a common issue during the winter months. With January and February temperatures often dropping below zero, the water turns to ice. This even happens to water inside the pipes of our homes.
If this happens, you’ll notice your toilet does not flush and your faucets do not work properly. Frozen pipes will stop the flow of water into your home, and you will need to call an emergency plumber to come in and thaw the pipes. Attempting this on your own can lead to further damage.
Clogged Sewer Line
The drains in your home carry waste from your bathroom and kitchen into the main sewer line. If this line is blocked, you can end up with flooding, leaky pipes, or more unwanted damage.
Do not try to complete this plumbing repair on your own. The main sewer line is buried deep in your house and the services of a professional plumber are required to fix the problem.
Leaking Fixtures
A tell-tale sign of pipe damage is water leaking from your ceiling or light fixtures. Water and electricity are a hazardous combination, and you should not attempt to fix this on your own.
If you notice water leaking or pooling up in any of your fixtures, you should contact an emergency plumber immediately. If left untreated, this could cause physical harm or an electrical fire.
If you notice any of the above plumbing concerns in your home, it is important to call an experienced plumber right away. Our licensed plumbers at Santos Water Service & Drain have been helping homeowners with plumbing services for decades in and around the GTA.
With advanced plumbing equipment and tools, our plumbers are ready to tackle any plumbing demands at an affordable price. Don’t hesitate to call us today at 416-824-3352 or fill out our online form.