Basement Waterproofing

Everyone at one point or another has entered a musty basement. The musty odor is due to the decay process from mold, mildew and dry rot. Mold in a basement is a sign of moisture – mold can only live in areas that have more than 50% humidity, which likely means that you have a leak.

An unpainted block wall will turn dark gray when wet while poured or painted walls will show discoloration. When you see white or dark outlines surrounding the discolored area it usually means it has either leaked before, or substantial moisture has come in through that area.

Black mold in a basement thrives in dampness and appears as dark, slimy spots on cellulose materials like drywall, wood, and cardboard, often signaling moisture issues from leaks or humidity, which can cause health problems like allergies; to deal with it, first stop the water source, then clean small areas with protective gear using vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, but call a pro for large infestations or porous materials, and use a dehumidifier to keep humidity low to prevent regrowth

Visual: Dark spots/stains (greenish, grayish, or black), slimy or fuzzy texture. Smell: A persistent musty odor.

Location: Foundation walls, around pipes, under stairs, behind wallpaper, in cardboard boxes.

How it Starts & Spreads:

• Moisture Source: Water penetrating the basement either through the wall, floor, or both.
• Fungal Spores: Airborne spores land on the damp wood, germinate, and the fungus (Serpula lacrymans) begins to grow, often unseen.
• Wood Consumption: The fungus feeds on the wood's cellulose, breaking it down and weakening its structure.
• Spreading: The fungus can travel through plaster and masonry to affect other wood, even if the initial wood dries out.

What to Do:

• Stop Moisture: Address the source of moisture (leaks, humidity).
• Remove & Replace: Rotted wood must be removed and replaced with new, sound lumber, as it won't regain strength.
• Professional Help: Contact a basement waterproofing or foundation repair specialist for inspection and treatment.

There are a variety of types of cracks you may find in your basement walls and floors. You may see step-cracks on the wall, vertical cracks or horizontal cracks. Cracks like these are usually caused by settling, pressure on the walls or under the floor, or something else.

Wood is porous. It absorbs moisture. Warped paneling is a sign that excessive moisture exists, and you need to find out why. The good news: if you find the source, you can make sure that your new paneling won’t warp. The bad news: you can’t repair warped wood paneling. You have to replace it.

Efflorescence is a white, powdery mineral deposit that appears on porous materials such as brick, concrete, and stone when water carries soluble salts to the surface and evaporates, leaving the salts behind. While usually cosmetic, it signals underlying moisture movement that can lead to mold or material deterioration. Removal involves dry brushing or specialized cleaners, while prevention focuses on controlling moisture entry.

Causes
• Water Source: Rain, groundwater, or condensation contacts building materials.
• Salt Presence: Natural salts (calcium, sodium, potassium) exist in materials or surrounding soil.
• Migration & Evaporation: Water dissolves and transports salts through pores; evaporation leaves a white residue on the surface

Common Causes of Peeling Paint

• High Humidity/Condensation: Everyday activities (showering, cooking, humidifiers) add moisture, or a cold basement wall causes condensation.
• Water Infiltration: Water seeps through porous concrete walls due to soil pressure (hydrostatic pressure) or foundation cracks.
• Poor Preparation: Painting over dirty, glossy, or unprimed surfaces.
• Leaks: Burst pipes or major leaks saturating the wall.

Identify & Stop Moisture: Dehumidify: Run a dehumidifier 24/7 in the basement. Ventilate: Ensure proper ventilation, maybe add exhaust fans.

Check Exterior: Make sure gutters drain away from the foundation and the ground slopes away from the house.

Waterproof: For persistent issues, you may need basement waterproofing.