Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing - What Are the Signs of a Leaky or Wet Basement?

Preventing a flooded basement is rarely on the top of the average homeowner's to-do list, but the professionals at Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing will tell you that it is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home. A leaky basement can cause many serious problems and reduce property values to an astonishing degree. However, since it is a problem that is easily ignored in the early stages, many people do not notice the warning signs until it is too late.

One of the first signs of a leaky basement is simply a pervasive feeling of dampness, particularly after a storm. If you touch the walls, they may feel cold or clammy, and there may be a faint smell of mildew. Of course some climates will always have some humidity, but excessive moisture should always be examined by waterproofing contractors like those at basements.com. One of the major causes of wet basements is improperly sealed concrete, which may not show typical signs of water damage. In these cases, a general dampness may be the only sign you have.

Some leaky basements may also show more obvious signs, such as water stains on the walls or floors. If you see these discolorations in your basement, call Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing at once before your basement is seriously damaged and your property values decreased to unacceptable levels. These marks are often signs of cracks in the walls or floor joints. Poorly sealed windows or leaking pipes may also be the cause of this damage. Regardless of the source, it is an urgent problem that needs the attention of waterproofing contractors immediately. Spalling is another sign of water damage. This can be seen in exposed brick or concrete surfaces. Essentially, water gets inside these materials and causes the surface to begin peeling away. Brick and concrete should never peel or flake in ideal conditions. Check out basements.com for more information on what to do if you notice these problems in your basement.

Another sign of a wet basement is mold or other deposits on the walls. This can take several forms. Mold is the most obvious, and is typically black, green, or yellow. While you cannot be certain that a discoloration is mold without laboratory testing, it is a good idea to be suspicious of any growth. Efflorescence is another sign of a leaky basement. This is a light-colored residue that resembles ash, and may sparkle in certain lights. It is created when water evaporates, leaving salt and other minerals behind. Often these conditions are also accompanied by a musty smell, or the odor of mildew. Any of these conditions require the immediate attention of a professional from midatlanticwaterproofing.com or basements.com as they are signs of excessive water accumulation.

While water damage can be subtle at first, a keen eye and regular inspections by the professionals at Mid-Atlantic Waterproofing can prevent major damage from occurring. Whether you use your basement as a storage area, a living space, or leave it mostly unused, it is important to keep it dry to protect your home as a whole.