You spend lots of time and money taking care of your home, so be sure to protect your investment by preventing minor moisture problems from growing into major problems that can cause structural damage to your home. Leaky basements can also lead to mold, which causes many health concerns including allergic reactions, agitated asthma, and irritation of the eyes, nose, and skin. A basement waterproofing company in Baltimore can identify and fix the cause of basement moisture problems. The first step is identifying the signs of moisture problems in your basement. Here’s what to look for.
Musty Odor
If you notice a musty odor in your basement , chances are good that your basement has moisture problems. This smell is the result of the decay process associated with mold, mildew, and dry rot. Even if signs of wetness and mold are not visible, a musty odor may be an indication of dampness. Contact a basement waterproofing company in Baltimore to identify the cause of the musty odor.
Condensation
During the humid months in Baltimore, look for signs of dampness or sweating around the bottom of the walls in your basement. Also look for sweating water pipes and condensation on windows. Damp spots on walls will turn block or concrete walls a dark gray color, which may be an indication of poor drainage around your home’s foundation. If you notice any of these signs, hire a professional to waterproof your basement.
Dry Rot
Although dry rot is typical on wood surfaces, it can also appear on walls, clothing, and other surfaces. Dry rot often appears as a brownish-black fungus growth. When dry rot occurs on wood surfaces, it can cause the wood to decay. Contact a basement waterproofing company before significant structural damage occurs as the result of dry rot.