What to Look for to Prevent Water Damage

6/16/2021 (Permalink)

There is a lot to be said for having a house with a basement. Not only is it great for extra storage and a place to hide out from any severe weather threats, but it also opens up the potential to expand your home’s square footage if it is a finished area.

Overall, there are many pros to having a basement, but it is important to also acknowledge the cons that they can present.

Having a house with a basement can be a drawback when it comes to water damage. While not every basement will have water damage in its lifetime, it is something that many are notorious for due to their unique construction.

Fortunately, by being aware of the signs of water damage in the basement, homeowners can catch things before they grow out of hand. If you suspect water damage, it is important to be sure to address it as quickly as possible so you do not have a much larger issue on your plate.

Preventing Basement Water Damage By Knowing the Signs

Unpleasant, musky odors. The water that leaks into a basement is often clean water, but that does not mean that musky odors can’t still develop. Water leads to mold and mildew growth, and as the water evaporates and leaves the bacteria behind, a musty odor can develop. Oftentimes, this odor is the very first thing that homeowners notice when they have water damage on their hands.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. Water damage can sometimes be temporarily masked with paint, which is the route that many well-intentioned homeowners take initially. While this may temporarily “solve” the problem, it is not a long-term solution by any stretch of the imagination. Water will always find its way in if there is an underlying problem, which can lead to issues with paint over time such as cracks, flakes and chips.

Foundational cracks. As temperatures fluctuate and the ground shifts and settles, it is normal for hairline cracks to develop throughout the home’s foundation. However, any cracks larger than a hairline should be immediately examined. Cracks that occur on the ceiling, walls or floor are often signs that water damage is occurring somewhere within the home and leading to damages.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more (253) 896-3000