Finding the moisture source in the basement isn't a lengthy process of elimination. In most cases, the list of usual suspects is quite short: condensation, water infiltration from outside, and indoor water leaks. Once you nail down the reason, there are proven remedies to a chronically damp, moldy environment just below your living spaces. Here are three tips to finding the moisture source in the basement.
Check the Humidity
As humid air contacts cool basement concrete and cold water pipes, condensation soaks these surfaces. This ongoing moisture cycle escalates water vapor in the air: sustained humidity levels in an enclosed, unventilated basement can reach 90 percent. A $20 electronic hygrometer can verify basement humidity. If it's 60 percent or more, consider installing a single-room dehumidifier to extract water vapor and lower humidity.
Test for Water Infiltration
Outdoor water permeating porous concrete walls creates a continuously moist environment inside the basement. Here's an easy DIY test to verify moisture in basement walls:
- Tape a one-foot square sheet of aluminum foil to a concrete basement wall with duct tape. Make sure the tape seals all four sides of the foil to the wall. Leave the foil in place for several days.
- Inspect the outside of the foil. If you notice droplets of water forming on the outside of the foil, you have high humidity and condensation.
- Peel the foil away from the wall and look for moisture on the inside of the foil, as well as darkened concrete underneath caused by accumulated moisture. If you note any outdoor water is permeating basement walls. Eliminate sources of water infiltration and consider applying waterproof wall sealant.
Examine the Plumbing
Pinhole plumbing leaks may be small, but they're big contributors to a chronically damp environment down in the basement. Check water supply lines for dripping as well as telltale signs like mineral content in water encrusting leaky pipes and joints. Have these repaired immediately by a qualified plumber. Minor leaks are often the precursor to major pipe ruptures.
The professionals at Rytech, Inc. can tell you more about finding the moisture source in the basement.
