Basement condensation occurs when warm, moist air comes in contact with your cool basement walls and floor. As the walls cool the warm air, moisture is created, just like condensation on a cold beer on a hot summer day.
Why is there a wet spot on my basement floor?
If you begin to notice wet spots on the basement floors or walls, you probably have a basement moisture problem. Persistent condensation can lead to structural damage. In many cases, a dehumidifier can provide a solution. Another common contributor to a wet basement is runoff from gutters.
How do you get moisture out of a concrete slab?
Methods Used to Stop Moisture in Concrete Floors
- Low-permeance Vapor Barrier or Retarder. A Low-permeance vapor Barrier or retarder can effectively keep below-slab moisture from reaching the flooring system. …
- Allow Natural Drying of Concrete Slab. Ad. …
- Keep Excavation Free of Water.
How do I get rid of moisture in my basement floor?
8 Ways to Dry Out a Damp Basement
- Install a Dehumidifier. …
- Ventilate the Area. …
- Reseal Your Concrete. …
- Attend to Air Leaks. …
- See to Downspouts and Grading Issues Outside. …
- Inspect Driveways and Other Outdoor Construction Features. …
- Air Out Wet Items Elsewhere. …
- Check Your Vents, Including Your Dryer Vent.
How do you fix efflorescence in a basement?
Here are some of the ways efflorescence can be removed: Scrub brush and detergent: For minor cases, simply scrubbing the salts away with a household detergent can be enough to remove them. Hitting the spot with hot water will make it seem to vanish, but as soon as the water dries it will just reappear.
Is efflorescence a serious problem?
Efflorescence itself isn’t dangerous or harmful. It can lead to potential moisture problems that can cause structural damage to building materials. So it is important to take action when you notice efflorescence in your basement, on your paving stones, or on other structures.
Is efflorescence on basement floor a problem?
Efflorescence in your basement can be a real problem. It’s not toxic all by itself, so you don’t have to worry about health risks of efflorescence on your basement walls. However, it can herald problems in the future.
Will a dehumidifier prevent efflorescence?
The truth is that a dehumidifier does nothing to counter or reverse the effects of efflorescence on your crawl space walls. This device will only help you dry out the crawl space air so moisture won’t build up and cause condensation, mold growth, rust, and other problems.
Will Drylok stop efflorescence?
DRYLOK® Etch is highly effective in etching masonry, stone, tile, and brick. It removes unsightly efflorescence (salt deposits) as well as excess mortar. Use DRYLOK® Etch, as a safer alternative to muriatic acid and is not activated until mixed with water for safe storage.
What is the white fluffy stuff on my basement floor?
The growth you could find in damp basements may not be mold; it could be mineral deposits. White, fluffy-looking mineral deposits are left behind as water evaporates from basement floors and walls.
How can you tell the difference between white mold and efflorescence?
Efflorescence forms on inorganic building materials, while mold forms on organic substances. However, it is possible for mold to consume dirt on brick or cement. Efflorescence will dissolve in water, while mold will not. Efflorescence is almost always white, yellow or brown, while mold can be any color imaginable.
What does mold look like on basement floor?
Mold might look like black spots or areas that have turned green. Some mold is white, but can be confused with efflorescence, which is a salty film on the concrete. If the white substance dissolves easily with water it is likely the latter.
How can you tell if concrete is moldy?
Spray a small amount of water on the substance. If it dissolves away, it’s efflorescence. If it doesn’t, it’s likely mold growing in your basement.
Can concrete slabs grow mold?
The answer is yes—mold can grow not only on concrete but also in concrete as the surface begins to degrade from the mold. But while it’s possible, it does require the right conditions to occur.
What kills concrete mold?
Liquid Laundry Detergent and Household Bleach. One of the most common and effective means of removing black or green mold from concrete is bleach. Bleach will kill mold down to the root, cleaning it off concrete while also preventing it from returning.
