Moisture Problems Remodeling your basement is one of the easiest and most cost-efficient ways of adding new living space to your house. Besides the traditional recreation room, more and more people are using basements for self-contained "In-law suites", rental suites or home offices. No matter what the renovation purpose, ensuring that the space is clean, dry and healthy is a critical part of the project and something that must be done prior to any renovation. Common Situations Moisture is the most common problem in basements - either entering from outside sources or being produced inside by the occupants' activities.
The soil around the walls can contain a large amount of moisture from surface water that is seeping down or from a high water table. Water can find its way inside by gravity or through a crack or flaw in the water protection layer of the foundation. Water can also be pulled up by a "wicking action" or "pushed up" by hydrostatic pressure from the soil under the walls or floor. In summer, warm moist air from outside can enter the house and lead to condensation on the cool basement walls or floor.
Daily activities also produce moisture that can be trapped inside the home.
Basement moisture problems often include: Foundation cracks that leak. Standing water. Efflorescence (white, chalky stains). Wet decaying wood in contact with concrete. Damp or moldy walls or floor. Condensation on windows, pipes and other fixtures. Wet insulation. Moisture damaged finishes. Musty or damp carpets. High humidity. Stuffy, damp smells.
Foundation cracks that leak.