How do I get rid of excess moisture in my basement?
5 Tips to Reduce the Humidity Level in Your Basement
- Open the Windows. A great way to get air circulating in the room is to open up the windows whenever you’re down there. …
- Keep It Clean! Storing too many items in your basement will create clutter. …
- Seal Up Any Gaps. …
- Turn Up the Heat. …
- Get a Dehumidifier.
Can water in the basement cause problems?
Water in the basement can lead to mold, musty smells, damaged walls and floors, and ruined furniture and belongings. It’s necessary to get rid of the water, fix underlying basement water problems, and take steps to keep your basement dry.
What are two ways to keep moisture out of the foundation?
Waterproofing the Foundation
- Maintain the Gutters. The gutters on your roof play a vital role in keeping the foundation dry and your house structurally sound. …
- Extend the Downspouts. …
- Slope the Ground. …
- Pay Attention to Your Landscaping. …
- Install Window Well Covers. …
- Seal Foundation Cracks. …
- Install Interior Waterproofing Measures.
How do I know if I have too much moisture in my basement?
Symptoms
- Water trickling out of walls.
- Standing water on floor.
- Saturated base of concrete block walls; a ring of dampness.
- Damp, humid air.
- Condensation on cold walls and floor in summer.
- Odor, mold and mildew.
- Deterioration of carpet or wood.
- Rot and decay of wood headers, joists, sill plates and columns.
How do I get moisture out of my basement without a dehumidifier?
How to Keep Basement Dry Without a Dehumidifier
- Set Houseplants Near Windows. …
- Hang Baking Soda In Plastic Bags.
- Use Fans in the Room. …
- Purchase Carpeting Mats. …
- Place Damp Rid in Your Basement. …
- Install a Vent Fan. …
- Add Extra Drainage and Waterproofing.
Will a sump pump keep basement dry?
Even a small amount of moisture in your home can cause structural problems, electrical fires, mold, and mildew. Sump pumps are an effective way to keep your basement dry, foundation strong, and your home free of health hazards like mold and mildew.
Should you buy a house with a damp basement?
The advantage to buying a home with a wet basement is the opportunity to negotiate a bargain price. In the current housing market, 40% of previously owned homes already have at least one serious defect; basement water is among the easiest of these defects to repair.
Is a wet basement normal?
Basement moisture is not an uncommon problem. In fact, basements are notoriously dark and damp places. Yet however common it may be, moisture in your basement can be bad news. Unfortunately for homeowners, a little bit of moisture can turn into a big problem.
Is a little water in basement normal?
While some amount of moisture is normal, there is a point in which it becomes dangerous, action should be taken. When you start to notice water stains along the floor or walls or a mildew smell, it is time to worry about a wet basement.
Can I seal my basement from the inside?
Waterproofing a basement in the inside is a very popular option because it is done without major exterior excavation and, in some cases, can be done very quickly and economically.
What is the fastest way to dry out a basement?
Use fans and a dehumidifier
To start drying, use a dehumidifier in the center of your basement. This will be a big help for removing moisture, but you can use large fans if you don’t have a dehumidifier. Turn on the air conditioning in your basement — that will help too.
How can I dehumidify my basement cheaply?
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.
Should you always have a dehumidifier in your basement?
As you debate whether or not to use a dehumidifier in winter, you should always watch the humidity levels in your home. If your relative humidity levels stay high, it might be a good idea to run your device. In fact, if your humidity levels remain above 50 percent, your room will benefit from a basement dehumidifier.
Does DampRid work in a basement?
Ideal for larger spaces like basements, garages, where stagnant air and excess moisture is a problem. The 4 lb. Hi-Capacity bucket lasts up to 6 months, depending on temperature and humidity levels. To use, remove the plastic lid exposing the sealed safety cover.
Why is the humidity so high in my basement?
What Causes Humidity in Basements? Basements are commonly poorly insulated, which allows outside conditions, hot or cold, to have more of an effect on interior temperatures and humidity levels. If a home’s foundation is cracked or its pipes are leaking, the moisture produced can also raise the humidity levels.
Should you run a dehumidifier in the basement all the time?
As you debate whether or not to use a dehumidifier in winter, you should always watch the humidity levels in your home. If your relative humidity levels stay high, it might be a good idea to run your device. In fact, if your humidity levels remain above 50 percent, your room will benefit from a basement dehumidifier.
Is 70% humidity in basement too high?
A relative humidity level of 70 percent or higher creates the perfect breeding ground for mold growth. Leaving basement mold unchecked could amount to unhealthy indoor air, causing sickness to your family and aggravated upper respiratory issues. Also, home-destroying mold could also cause costly foundation damage.
Should a dehumidifier run constantly?
Should a Dehumidifier Run Constantly? No, there is no need to keep the dehumidifier running constantly. It’s generally enough to run the unit when the humidity level is 50% or higher. A good rule of thumb to remember is to maintain a comfortable 30-50% humidity level for most homes.
What are the disadvantages of a dehumidifier?
Pros & Cons of Dehumidifiers
- Pro: Helps With Allergies. Excess moisture in the air promotes mold growth, and mold causes allergies in many people. …
- Pro: Increases Comfort. …
- Con: Noise and Heat. …
- Con: May Increase Energy Bill. …
- Con: Requires Regular Maintenance.
Where should dehumidifier be placed in basement?
Placing your dehumidifier near the source of moisture will be more efficient. Your dehumidifier will capture humidity before it has a chance to infiltrate other areas.
