Signs of a Waterproofing Problem

At one time or another, most homeowners have had the unforgettable experience of stepping down from their basement stairs into a cold, mushy puddle of water. It takes only a split second to realize, not only are your socks wet, but you have a major problem on your hands.

A basement waterproofing problem is not always that easy to spot. Slow leaks in walls or pipes, humidity or other sources of moisture can cause problems that might go unnoticed for years. Unfortunately, these problems are often not found until it is too late, when major damage is done.

So what can you do to spot water problems before it’s too late? Always keep a lookout for one or more of the following clues:

· Mold and Mildew – Mold and mildew can only grow in damp surroundings, so if you see mold or mildew in your home, you probably have a water problem. Left unchecked, mold and mildew can cause an unhealthy environment throughout your home and create problems for those with breathing difficulties and allergies.

· Odour – If you can’t see any mold or mildew, perhaps you can smell it. Mold and mildew will give your basement a musty odour. An “earthy” smell could also be a clue to a problem. Often, when water leaks into a basement from the outside, it brings with it dirt and debris that produce the odour. Be aware if your basement smells differently than the rest of your home or if you notice a new odour.

· Insects – A number of different insects thrive in humid environments and their presence could mean you have a water problem. Large, black carpenter ants love to chew through damp wood and can cause serious damage. Dust mites like dampness and their droppings are a major irritant for allergy sufferers. Other insects to look out for include house centipedes and termites!

· White deposits on walls – When water leaks into your home and evaporates, the minerals that were held in the water are left behind. If you notice a white chalky substance on your basement walls or floor, you have had a leak and you have a problem.

· Rust on metal objects – If you spot undue rust on tanks or your HVAC systems, it may mean there is too much humidity in the air, which could lead to mold and mildew.

· Damp or bent wood panels or studs – Moisture warps wood. Curves in studs or bent panelling likely means there is water present. If wood is spongy to the touch then the problem is fairly advanced and there is probably an ongoing leak that keeps the wood constantly wet. More than most other problems, this one deserves immediate attention.

Unfortunately, water problems in the basement are not always as easy to spot as stepping in a puddle. Water damage can be very serious and, left undetected, excessive water and moisture can cause structural problems for your house and health problems for you and your family. So keep an eye (and nose!) out for the telltale signs of water problems and keep your home safe and healthy.

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