How To Keep Moisture Out Of Your Basement

A basement is a great place to store items that you don’t use regularly, but it can also be a breeding ground for mold and mildew if moisture is not controlled. Moisture can enter your basement through cracks in the foundation, walls, or floor, or it can be caused by condensation. Once moisture gets into your basement, it can cause a number of problems, including:

Mold and mildew growth
Musty odors
Damage to stored items
Structural damage to your home

There are a number of things you can do to keep moisture out of your basement, including:

Seal any cracks or gaps in the foundation, walls, or floor. You can use a caulk gun to fill in small cracks, and you can use a hydraulic cement to fill in larger cracks.
Install a sump pump. A sump pump is a device that pumps water out of your basement when the water level gets too high.
Install a dehumidifier. A dehumidifier removes moisture from the air, which can help to prevent mold and mildew growth.
Ventilate your basement. Make sure that your basement has adequate ventilation by opening windows and doors when possible. You can also install a fan to help circulate the air.
Keep your basement clean and dry. Avoid storing items in your basement that can absorb moisture, such as cardboard boxes or newspapers. If you do store items in your basement, make sure to keep them off the floor and away from walls.

If you have a moisture problem in your basement, it is important to take steps to address the issue as soon as possible. Moisture can cause serious damage to your home, and it can also create health problems for you and your family. By following the tips above, you can help to keep moisture out of your basement and protect your home from damage.

Additional tips for keeping moisture out of your basement:

Make sure that the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation. This will help to prevent water from pooling around your foundation and seeping into your basement.
Clean your gutters and downspouts regularly. Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow and pool around your foundation.
Cover any exposed soil around your foundation with mulch or gravel. This will help to prevent water from evaporating and seeping into your basement.
If you have a crawl space, make sure that it is properly ventilated. A crawl space that is not properly ventilated can become damp and musty, which can lead to mold and mildew growth.