Does Water in the Basement Mean a Broken Pipe?

Identification

• When water is a constant problem inside your basement, a variety of problems can occur. Wet basements cause an increase in indoor humidity levels throughout the house. Basement walls and floors that stay wet are also susceptible to mold, which thrives in constant moisture. Mold growth can cause serious health effects in people with asthma or allergies. Diagnosing the cause of excess moisture in your home requires a little detective work to determine the source of moisture.

Causes

• Leaking or broken pipes are a common cause of standing water inside your home. Improperly graded soil is another common cause of excess moisture inside basements. The ground outside your home should be sloped away from your home, keeping water from seeping inside. If the ground is sloped toward the home, rain water will drain toward the foundation and come in through cracks in the foundation of the home. Gutters and downspouts may become clogged with debris or leaf litter, which will cause a back up of water than runs inside the basement.

Effects

• Water can cause structural damage to your home that may result in costly repairs. When water problems are present inside your home, the chance of dangerous mold growth increases significantly, especially in humid rooms like basements. Mold growth looks like splattered paint scattered across surfaces and is usually black, gray or green. Some molds produce a musty odor, and some even smell foul. When mold is present for long periods of time, it begins to break down the material it is growing on, which can cause structural damage to your home.

Solutions

• If leaking or broken pipes are the cause of excess moisture inside your home, consult a plumber for repairs or repair the pipes yourself. Check the ground outside your home to determine whether it is sloped properly. Regrade the soil if necessary for proper drainage. Routinely inspect gutters, downspouts and eaves for clogging, and clean debris away. Installing a wire covering over these drains can keep clogging to a minimum. Once the source of moisture is repaired, remove excess water and inspect the basement for mold growth. If mold is visible, remove it by scrubbing the moldy areas with a stiff brush dipped in liquid dish detergent and water.