The Tokens of Basement Water Damage | SERVPRO® of West Milwaukee

5/28/2021 (Permalink)

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Basements can be one of the most useful parts of a home. If you have a larger family, it can be a great place for kids to play while you get some peace and quiet upstairs.

As kids grow, it could be living space. You could use it for a home office or gym, and of course basements make pretty good storm shelters in a pinch.

However, many people who have owned a house with a basement can tell you the tale of the Achilles heel of basements—water damage.

Sure, it’s not an absolute lock that you’ll encounter a water emergency, but it’s one of the most common home insurance claims, so it’s in your interest to know both the risks and the warning signs. Let’s take a look at the things you’re most likely to see if water is becoming a problem downstairs.

Common Indicators of Moisture or Leakage in the Basement

Unpleasant, musky odors. Water that leaks into your basement doesn’t have to be dirty water or sewage to cause a problem. Even clean water will start to sour as it sits and soaks into surfaces, eventually producing the musty smell that arises when mold and mildew are present in the environment. You may not yet see mold on your walls or ceiling, but if you smell the aroma, it’s already there and you’ve got moisture somewhere.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. If the paint is cracking, bubbling or otherwise contorting, you have a water issue somewhere. Even so-called waterproof paint sometimes used on cinder block walls won’t keep moisture out for long, and if you’ve got a leak or moisture from the surrounding soil, you’ll eventually see the disruptions in the paint.

Foundational cracks. It’s true that houses do shift over a number of years, but cracks in the foundation are not common, and they mustn’t be ignored. You may first notice cracks in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls, a sign that the house is exhibiting signs of pressure that could be caused by a compromised foundation. If you see any cracks inside that are larger than a hairline, call for professional diagnosis.

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.