The 5 Most Common Basement Problem

It does not matter if your basement is a top-of-the-line gaming room or simple storage or laundry area. All basements are subjected to the same issues due to their location— below the water table or below ground level.

Basement problems range from minor nuisances to catastrophic issues that can practically ruin the value of your home. If you need the experts, click to find the best basement repair company in Baltimore.

Here are some of the most common basement issues homeowners have to deal with:

1. Mildew and Mold

This is perhaps the most commonly faced basement issue of all. Mold and mildew love dark and humid environments. And your basement really fits that description.

With 40 percent of the air you breathe on the first floor of your house being circulated from the basement, molds and mildew can cause serious health problems. Breathing issues, headaches, and allergic reactions are just some of the health risks of a mold-infested basement.

2. Structural Damages

Basements are also subjected to several structural damages, whether caused by natural weather or water damage from faulty pipes.

Some of the damages you may notice include:

•  Wall Bowing

Wall bowing can be the result of a poor structural design. However, it is often caused by the excessive pressure from the soil that surrounds your home. Other possible causes of bowing problems in your basement walls are poor drainage, heavy rain, expansion due to frost, large tree roots, and inadequate grading.

• Cracks

When soil absorbs too much rainwater, it starts to expand which puts a lot of pressure on the walls, creating cracks. Humidity level and fluctuations in temperature can also cause framing members and drywall to contract and expand which can result in cracking. These cracks should be filled in to prevent further damage.

• Sinking Floors

Floors can start to sink when the soil underneath them starts to erode due to water. This can leave little support for the foundation of your home. A sinking floor is a serious problem that should be fixed by professionals.

3. Moisture Leaks

If the cracks in your basement walls are not repaired, then this can cause moisture or water leaks. Water can enter the basements and cause a broad range of other issues such as mold and fungus buildup.

4. Humidity and Nasty Odor

If water is not causing the problems in your basement, humidity can. A humid environment allows rot and mold to grow.

In addition, a nasty odor also occurs. It is pretty common for most basements to smelly moldy, musty or rotting. The most common fix for this is to install a dehumidifier in your basement.

5. Pest Infestation

Another common basement problem is pest infestation. Generally, the dark, cool and moist environment attracts pests like cockroaches, ants, termites, and rodents. Also, cracks that are left unfixed provide entry points for these pests.

These pests carry various health risks that you don’t want your family to be exposed to.