The signs of water damage in your basement are not always obvious. In fact, there may be water problems for some time before you actually realize it. If left unchecked, these will only get worse.
That’s why it is so important to not only be able to recognize these signs of water damage but to have regular inspections for your basement and foundation.
What Water Damage Signs Should I Look for in My Basement?
Water damage can happen in several different ways, like weather, leaks, or broken pipes.
Musty Odors
Basements can almost always have a musty or earthy smell to them. In particular, if they are not finished or used very often. This is very often due to mold or mildew that has developed.
If you have had previous problems with water seeping in, the smell of mold can be almost impossible to get rid of. This is a problem, as you allow yourself to get used to it and assume it’s the old smell, not a new one.
Mold and Mildew
You will often notice the smell of mold before you see it. If you have a finished basement, the mold could be growing almost anywhere. If the water damage is occurring behind a wall, then it may take some time for it to be noticed.
While mold is a natural substance, it is not a healthy one to be growing in your basement. You not only need to have the water-damaged area repaired, but you need to address the mold and mildew, as well.
Damp Patches
If you start to notice damp spots, stains, or areas that are discolored, there could be a problem with water damage. These can appear on the walls, floors, and ceilings.
This could be from leaks behind the wall due to pipe issues, condensations, or water from outside seeping in. have them checked out right away, as these problems will only get worse.
Cracks
Cracks on the walls or the floors can be an indication of water damage. If there are leaks behind the walls or seeping into the floor, it puts pressure on the concrete and will cause it to crack.
Smaller hairline cracks are quite normal, but keep an eye on them. If they seem to be getting bigger or have indications there may be dampness around them, have them checked out.
Swelling or Sinking Floors
Look for changes in your floors, whether they are covered or not. Swelling, cracks, or parts that seem to be sinking or lower than the rest then you should certainly call an expert to come and look it over.
Water can come in from outside and start to build up under your floors, it can come from a leaking or broken pipe, or soil shifting down below the surface. There may also be signs that your floor is coming away from the wall.
Water Damage Signs in the Basement
If your basement has been recently flooded or have any of these signs of water damage mentioned or any other, contact us here are Olson Foundation Repair. We can come out and inspect your basement and help you with any repairs that you may need to be done.
Olson Foundation Repair provides superior basement waterproofing services for homeowners throughout the Kansas City Metro area. If your basement is wet, it may be because of cracks in the foundation or a drainage system in your basement that isn’t working correctly. You must have any basement moisture issue fixed as soon as possible to avoid extensive and expensive structural problems for your home.