Damp Basements

A damp basement can be a real nuisance. To be sure, it can cause all sorts of problems, from ruining the paint job to damaging the structure of the walls and supports beams. Worse still, a damp basement allows harmful bacteria to flourish, which in turn can lead to an array of problematic health conditions.

Dry Season

Damp basements happen for many reasons, including leaky pipes, poor insulation, foundation weakness, and humid weather conditions. Regardless of the source of the problem, however, you can expect a number of difficulties to arise when the basement environment becomes moist for long periods of time. Notably, these problems include structural, financial, and health-related concerns.

From a structural standpoint, a damp basement is problematic because it damages paint and rots walls and support beams. Over time, this can lead to some very expensive and time-consuming home repairs. This financial burden is exacerbated by the mounting energy bills associated with trying to keep a damp basement dry. However, by far the most pressing concern is the one that pertains to health-related issues.

A damp basement is a breeding ground for bacteria, mold, and fungus. These pollutants are the prime culprits in allergies, asthma, and a wide range of respiratory ailments. Although it is important to address the source of the damp basement, it is also necessary to take immediate health precautions. Most often, these precautions come in the form of an air purifier or ventilator that can keep the area free of germs and other airborne irritants.