Water Marks in Basement Concrete

Identification

• Basements are humid and damp, making condensation, water leaks and high humidity a common problem. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, when water stains are localized on concrete or walls, water leaks are the most common cause. If entire concrete walls or ceilings have water stains or mold growth, high humidity is the most common culprit. Identifying the source of moisture that's causing water marks on your concrete is key to repairing the problem and preventing damage to your home.

Causes

• Excess water can seep into your basement many different ways. Basements that have dirt floors often have water damage from moisture migrating through the foundation. When standing water is visible in your basement, a foundation leak is the most likely cause. Improper sloping of the ground outside your home can allow moisture to run toward the foundation and leak inside. Rain gutters and downspouts can become clogged with leaf litter or other debris, causing water to leak inside your basement as well. Homes that have sump pumps may have water damage if the pump quits working.

Effects

• When water stains the concrete walls or floors in your basement, you have a moisture problem that must be repaired before damage to the structure of your home occurs. Excessive amounts of moisture can lead to mold growth, which can begin to grow as soon as 24 hours after moisture is present in your home. Prolonged exposure to mold can cause those living in the home to develop hay fever-like symptoms, such as sneezing, itchy eyes, contact dermatitis and nasal congestion. Those who have preexisting respiratory conditions may develop more serious symptoms, such as wheezing, difficulty breathing and severe coughing. Over time, mold digests the material it covers, damaging your home's structure and requiring costly home repairs.

Solutions

• Many water problems are easy to solve once the source of the problem is identified. If the ground is sloping toward your home, you must regrade it to direct the water away from the foundation to prevent leaks. Clean all rain gutters and downspouts regularly, removing any leaves and debris that can cause clogs. To reduce moisture problems in dirt floor basements, place a plastic barrier over the soil to prevent moisture from migrating through the foundation of your home. Have your sump pump checked regularly to be sure it is working properly. Reducing the humidity inside your basement may help keep water marks from occurring. Running a dehumidifier during hot, humid months may help reduce humidity levels indoors, which should range between 30 and 50 percent. Any mold growth present in the water-stained area must be cleaned up to prevent health problems associated with exposure to mold spores. Mold can be removed from concrete by scrubbing it away with a stiff brush dipped in liquid dish detergent and water. Rinse the area thoroughly and dry.