Importance of keeping basements clean and dry

The importance of keeping the basement clean and dry for improving your homes resale value.

Many homeowners with basements fail to understand just how important it is to keep their basements clean and dry. They don’t realize that it is essential for the ongoing stability of the home’s foundation and key to keeping the air in the home safe. There are several different health problems that could result from the growth of mold and mildew in your basement. The following tips should help you with that basement waterproofing project.

Start at the top.
Lack of adequate gutters and down spouts which are clean and in good condition will lead to water runoff leaking into your basement. Gutters which are full of leaves or other debris can cause water to spill out and land right next to your homes foundation. Gutters which are clogged or have leaks should be repaired quickly. To help make ongoing maintenance easier you may choose to install a mesh guard on your gutters to keep large debris and leaves from getting stuck.

Check the path of your rainwater.
In order to keep water from accumulating near your foundation your yard should slope away from the house. Ideally your lawn should be graded so that it drops six inches away from the house every ten feet. You may need to have an expert complete this task if you don’t have access to the necessary equipment.

Check your window wells.
Water will often collect in window wells or egress windows during a rainstorm. Unfortunately this water is then held directly against your foundation. For just a few dollars you should be able to pick up plastic window wells covers from your local hardware store or home improvement center.

Check for water from the inside.
You may want to consider purchasing a dehumidifier to reduce condensation and other sources of internal moisture. Insulating your air conditioning ducts and pipes will also help reduce water build up. If you have a bathroom installed in your basement you should clean it regularly and make sure it has adequate ventilation. This will prevent the build up of moisture which can lead to mold and mildew.

After performing these tasks your basement should be free from moisture. You will need to recheck your basement regularly to be sure that no new problems have arisen. Remember that these checks can really help protect your family’s health and your homes value.

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