House problems exist from top to bottom, especially in your basement. Most basement problems are because of the location, which is the below-ground level. Whether it serves as a storage area or a mini wine cellar, your basement is subject to several issues that range from minor problems to catastrophic ones.
Basement repairs can be stressful and tricky, so make sure you know the problems to look out for. Keep your basement from being a total mess by preventing the following issues:
Humidity and Mold
Both humidity and mold come hand in hand. Extreme humidity can damage your basement, especially when the room isn’t properly sealed. When there’s too much moisture in the air, condensation might occur. Increased moisture levels can lead to mold and mildew.
Mold can literally cause headaches and turn your basement into an uncomfortable environment. Aside from deteriorating your basement’s appearance, mold growth can trigger allergic reactions and other health issues.
If you see specks of black or white stains on the walls, do not take them lightly. Have them taken care of before things get worse. You may hire a professional who can find the mold source and address your moisture concerns.
Funky Smell
Basements are known to be damp places with a musty smell. Due to the lack of proper ventilation, basements are the perfect breeding ground for mold and mildew. These fungi release foul-smelling gasses that spread throughout the room. When the funky smell embeds on the carpet, curtains, and walls, it can be hard to get rid of.
Even if you don’t think it’s serious, you should still get to the bottom of that foul basement smell. The best way to avoid a musty basement is to prevent mold growth in the first place. Mold remediation is effective in removing fungal growth and cleaning all contaminated areas. Vapor barriers and dehumidifiers must be installed to eliminate the remaining odor.
Sump Pump Problems
A sump pump is a device that collects groundwater and moves it outside of your home. It’s a naturally constructed pit that helps reduce the risk of water damage. Sump pumps are typically located in basements where flooding happens.
Many people forget to regularly maintain their sump pumps, which causes mishaps. When a sump pump goes out, your basement will likely get flooded. Make sure to stay on top of sump pump maintenance, so nothing will go wrong.
Basement Cracks
One of the most common basement problems is cracks on walls and concrete surfaces. Basement cracks allow water to seep into your home. Although these cracks may not be large at first, they can grow rapidly and cause structural damage. Cracks that are larger than 1/8” inches may be a cause of concern. Wide cracks will soon put your basement at greater risk for flooding and foundation issues.
A bad foundation makes the entire structure weak, so it’s better to have your basement checked by a professional. Basement cracks can be repaired with a caulking gun and an epoxy sealer.
Pests
If you have a damp basement, it won’t be long until pests and bugs make their way into your home. Millipedes, bugs, and arthropods thrive in dark, damp areas due to their high moisture needs. They will likely seek shelter in your basement and hide in cracks or crevices. In addition, basement bugs feed on mold and any decomposing matter.
To keep bugs out of the basement, fill the gaps in the wall that are likely entry points for bugs. You should also regularly clean your basement to prevent dust and mold from accumulating.
Outdated Design
Basement renovations aren’t as popular as other home improvements projects like kitchen and bathroom remodeling. That’s why most basements are outdated and unfinished. From chipped paint to musty smells, we often forget to upgrade the basement. Maybe now’s the time to consider a basement remodeling project. Here are some of the ways you can update your below-ground space:
- Add LED lights to brighten the space
- Choose light colors to create a cozy atmosphere
- Declutter and incorporate functional storage systems
- Make it family-friendly by adding modern décor
Turn to the Best Basement Remodelers
Pittsburgh Basement Remodeling can solve all your dilemmas. Our team offers home inspections, basement repairs, and complete renovation. To get a free quote, give us a call today!