There are several different signs of a wet basement. Checking your basement regularly for these signs will help you identify a leaky basement and address the problem before it becomes a major headache and a very expensive situation to remedy.
1. Water Stains
Water stains are the first clue to a wet, leaky basement. These stains could be along the walls or floor. These water stains could be a caused by something simple like overflowing laundry tub or you could a basement waterproofing problem as a result of water seeping in through the joint where the floor and walls meet.
2. Musty Smell
Excess stagnate moisture in a basement creates a musty smell, which can spread into your belongs stored in the basement and the rest of the home. The smell is not only unpleasant, it can be a sign that your basement is collecting water, which could lead to a big basement waterproofing problem.
3. Mold and Mildew
Mold and mildew come in a variety of colors including black, brown, yellow or green. You should get it tested to know for sure if it is mold. Find a local mold certified specialist to assess your problem basement. Often the northwest corner of a house is known as a “cold corner” and susceptible to developing mold.
4. Efflorescence
Efflorescence produces a white or sometimes grayish ash on the basement walls. Sometimes the white-gray stains have a slight sparkle. These stains are caused by salt deposits left behind after water has evaporated. Although some of the water has evaporated, you now know that water has an entrance into your basement and could cause severe water damage.
5. Concrete Spalling
Concrete spalling occurs when water gets inside the surface of concrete, brick or stone. Salt deposits in the water settle in the surface of the basement walls causing the face of the basement walls to flake away, peel or pop off. Concrete spalling reduces the integrity of your basement walls and allows an entrance for seepage.
