Basement Floor Drying Solutions

Moisture in the basement is a common problem and is mostly overlooked. Basement being a space that is seldom used may not appear an enormous issue. However, basements are always connected to the rest of the house through ductwork and other openings. In some instances, cellars are used as living or bedroom spaces.

From Where Does the Moisture in the Basement Come?

There are two significant sources of water or moisture in the basement. The first source is indoor humidity which condenses on cold surfaces. The second is water or water vapor that comes from outside the building. For instance, groundwater can leak into your basement by saturating the soil around your foundation.

 

You can detect how moisture is getting into your basement. Stick aluminum foil to your basement wall and inspect after two days.  Moisture showing on the outside of the foil indicates there is high indoor humidity whereas moisture behind the foil suggests water leakage through basement walls.

6 Effective Ways of Drying Your Basement Floor

1. Install a dehumidifier.

Having a dehumidifier in your building is a great idea and also an ideal solution for any climatic condition. Basement being the area that collects more humidity than other areas makes it a health risk-prone area. Therefore,  having a dehumidifier in your basement becomes a necessity.

A solid unit--  Sentinel HDi90 dehumidifier is enough to solve your dampness problem. It is economical on your electricity and draws up to 90 pints of water per day. A dehumidifier is a fast way to protect your basement from moisture damage as well as help improve your overall health.

2. Attend to air leaks.

Mostly the point at which the foundation meets the flooring can be the entry point for moisture. During rainstorms, seals around basement windows and other access points for humidity can allow in a lot of water. A silicon sealer can help plug these leaky vents and windows and have no more moisture sneaking in. You can restore back dryness by use of a dehumidifier.

3. Create ventilation.

To allow air out of a wet basement, you need to create ventilation by opening doors or windows and then run air fans. Availability of air circulation option in your furnace can also help to air the basement. Combination of the various options available can help a great deal in keeping air in the whole house well circulated.

4. Reseal your concrete.

Moisture in the basement can easily sneak its way through concrete walls; with old concrete being more vulnerable to this. Condensation can result, and humidity will be found on walls surfaces a condition that attracts growth of molds.  To stop moisture condensation, you can use a concrete paint-and-sealer combo on your walls or floors. These sealants are available in various colors and strengths; therefore, you can choose what suits your home.

5. Inspect your vents including dryer vents.

If you have a humidifier in your living space, it’s possible there are loose ducts and cracks on the vents that are trapping moisture. They need to be attended to prevent the situation from deteriorating. Besides, your dryer vents nature of carrying warm and moist air often may subject them to developing cracks or holes. Inspection is therefore necessary.

6. Air out wet items away from the basement.

It is good to avoid keeping your wet items on the basement as having them sit on your basement will contribute to more moisture issues. It will make it harder for a dehumidifier to correct the situation and also attract molds to form. These wet items should be aired out on a surface with adequate ventilation like a garage.

The severity of your basement problem will determine if you will need several of the above-listed solutions to resolve your moisture problems fully. Moisture issues are not just about cleanliness and comfort but instead home’s value and human health. Therefore keeping your basement clean and dry is an essential part of your home life.