How to Fix the Moisture Problem in Your Basement
For many people - especially those with certain allergies - the basement is the least appealing place in the house. Even if you've got carpeting and have remodeled your basement to look like another great room, it won't necessarily be pleasant if you've got too much moisture built up. Moisture build-up in basements is a common problem, and with some common sense tips, you'll be able to make a lot of progress against moisture in your basement.
A dehumidifier is one of the most popular ways to reduce moisture. Even by its own name, the role of a dehumidifier is simply to take water out of the air and concentrate it back into liquid form: many people are surprised when they see just how much moisture was in their air. It's not uncommon for people to see gallons of water gathered in their dehumidifier after just a short time of running it. If you aren't running a dehumidifier - especially in the summer - it is a great addition to your basement. But remember that even though a dehumidifier removes moisture, it doesn't necessarily take the dampness out of your entire basement.
You can take a very natural approach to reducing basement moisture by employing a rain barrel to collect the rain that hits your roof and comes down through your gutter system. If you don't have a need to let all of that rain collect on your lawn or other places around the house, you can simply collect that water. This will avoid letting the water seep into the ground, where it can then find its way via moisture into your basement. Instead, you can use the rain barrel for practical applications such as watering plants on dryer days. You'd be surprised at how much rain you can collect if you really can find a way to put all of the rain from your roof into one source.
You can also look into waterproofing your walls - either by a waterproofing material installed along your walls or by choosing waterproofing paint when you paint your basement. Waterproofing your walls might seem like it traps moisture in your basement, but it's also keeping moisture out of the basement. When you have a dehumidifier running in your basement, it will then be simple to remove the rest of the moisture that's been trapped in your basement, keeping moisture levels stable and dry.
Knowing how to keep your basement dry means you also know how to keep it comfortable. If you plan on getting a lot of use out of your basement, make sure that you understand how to maintain clean, dry air.
Photo Credits: Photos by Mavis
Originally posted 2009-07-23 03:30:59.
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Posted by Fix Handyman on July 19, 2010 in
Basement, Handyman, How to Fix
Basement Upgrading FAQs
If you've ever dreamt about owning that "dream basement" in which you have your buddies over to watch the game on an expensive high-definition TV while they drink and partake of snacks at the bar, then you've probably looked at your crusty old basement and imagined what you could do with it. Chances are that if you're reading this article, you've finally decided that it's time to take action and turn those dreams into a reality. That's why this article will address some basic basement upgrading FAQs (frequently asked questions) to help you get started.
- Should I get a contractor?
Depends on what you want to do. If you want to do a lot to your basement, then you're going to want a contractor. At some point, there will probably be a part of the job that you simply aren't able to handle. Some people will even install new bathrooms in their basement, and since they don't have plumbing experience, they'll have to outsource that part of the work. Don't worry about outsourcing - it's part of any new project, and it's how most businesses work. It will help improve the quality of your basement in the end.
- Will I need a permit for anything?
I can't speak as to the local laws in your area, but there's a good chance that any major upgrades you make will have to fall under "permit" status or at least be in line with city or town codes. Make sure that before you try anything, you're aware of the kind of laws on the books. You can have a contractor give you an estimate for the basement job, and they'll be able to clue you in on the types of permits or permissions you might have to obtain in order to upgrade your basement. This doesn't always mean that it will be a long process, but the sooner you can get it out of the way, the better.
- What about basement moisture?
While you're dreaming of the bar you can install and the TV you'll be watching, one of the largest issues you'll have to address in your basement upgrade is actually basement moisture. You have to make sure that you have the systems in place to keep the basement dry as it needs to be - this will help keep wood in great status and prevent people who have allergies from having a reaction. This will definitely help you improve the quality of life in your basement, so make sure to consult a contractor on drainage and moisture removal.
Originally posted 2009-07-17 03:30:54.
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Posted by Fix Handyman on June 26, 2010 in
Basement, Handyman, How to Fix
Water in the Basement?
One of the first things new homeowners realize about their home is that nothing happens automatically. That is to say, nothing will get cleaned unless you clean it up, and nothing will get maintained or repaired unless you take actions toward those ends. One of the frequent problem that pops up? A wet or exceedingly moist basement that smells stuffy. If you want a clean, dry basement that any guest would love to visit, here are a few tips.
First, if you don't have a dehumidifier, you'll need to get one. You'd be amazed at how much water a dehumidifier can remove from the air in your basement - you might find yourself emptying gallons and gallons of water that essentially came from "thin air." When you have a dehumidifier, you realize how things like air quality can really effect the rest of your home, not to mention the general mustiness of a moist basement. Make sure you have a dehumidifer up and running before you try some other solutions for a musty basement.
A dehumidifier can also solve other problems with a wet basement. For example, condensation appearing on your basement walls or on windows can mean that there's a lot of moisture in the air in your basement. A dehumidifier will also work to help solve this problem. If that's not enough, try using a vapor barrier. Remember that temperature differences also can make for humidity and condensation, so make sure that your basement walls are insulated.
For water seepage, there can be more problems with your basement that a simple dehumidifier can't fix. For example, rain water might be able to seap through the ground and enter your basement. If you have water seepage like this, you'll want to identify the source and then do further research to find out how you can remedy this kind of problem. If you're in doubt, try asking a professional for their advice.
Water damage can be among the most serious threats to your property, especially if you've got a basement full of sentimental items and useful trinkets and supplies. Make sure to guard your basement effectively by understanding insulation, air humidity, and how you can seal your basement off from potential water harm. The more you know about a wet basement, the better you'll be able to fix it.
Photo Credits: Loozrboy
Originally posted 2009-10-16 03:37:48.
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Posted by Fix Handyman on March 15, 2010 in
Basement, Handyman, How to Fix
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