Warning Signs of a Leaking Basement

It’s often said that by the time you see signs of trouble, the damage has already taken place. While that may be true in many situations, a leaky basement is a sign that can be seen if you look hard enough for it. Recognizing the warning signs of a leaking basement is crucial. The infiltration of moisture into a basement has consequences that may far exceed your expectations. Yet, a small leak over time may result in large repair bills all because it was not addressed properly.

By spotting a leaky basement in the early stages, you may save many thousands of dollars on a repair bill. Spotting early warning signs of a leaking basement includes observing wall changes. While it may not be possible to spot every instance of a leak, with a little care and timely inspections, you can catch a great number of them before they become big problems.

Presence of Mold or Mildew

Mold and mildew are organisms that consume organic materials. In their natural dry state especially outdoors, they are mostly harmless. However, when mold finds a damp or moist place, the humidity provides the fuel for them to grow and spread. If you see mold or mildew on the walls or floor, there is a moisture leak somewhere in the basement, which is one of the warning signs of a leaking basement.

Left unchecked, mold can quickly produce spores and spread throughout the basement and into your home. The damage it can cause to the wood and other organic materials in your home is considerable. Not to mention the effect the spores have on the health of those who live inside. If you see mold, then you must clean it away quickly and eliminate the source of moisture. 

Damp Spots

The most obvious sign of a leaky basement is the damp spots that appear on unpainted blocks along the walls. You usually will see them close to the floor, but they can happen anywhere along the wall that is underground. Unpainted blocks will start to turn dark grey which indicates the presence of moisture, often in the form of an outline.

Paint that is Peeling

Many people mistake the cause of peeling paint as being old paint that needs to be replaced. However, even old paint does not peel off the walls unless there is another reason. While it may peel away because it was the wrong type of paint for the material it covers. Or, that the surface was not prepared in the proper fashion. The most common reason for paint peeling off the walls of the basement is the presence of moisture. This is another of the warning signs of a leaking basement.

Once the surface becomes damp, the paint will lose its ability to stick to the wall. Blisters or bubbles are usually the first sign of moisture that is collecting behind the paint.

Other Indications

What follows are a few other indications that moisture may be present in your basement.

• Cracks in the Foundation
• Musty Odor: This is usually the presence of mold
• Dry Rot: Wood that has rotted has done so indirectly because of moisture
• Rust on metal surfaces: The oxidation process is helped by the presence of water
• Calcium Buildup: The chalky substance that leaks from the mortar

If you see any indication of a leaky basement, catching it early can save you from extensive repairs. EverDry of Cincinnati will identify install our patented basement waterproofing to ensure your home is protected. Our work also comes with a Lifetime Dry Basement Warranty which will increase the value of your home.