Adam, CEO of EcoSpect, provides a concise and informative video overview on why basements flood, covering issues such as poor drainage and foundation cracks. Basements should be dry and clean for a healthy living environment because 40% of the air we breathe comes from the basement or crawl space. If groundwater or rainwater seeps into your basement through a leak or a crack, you will face numerous problems. A moist basement allows mold and mildew to grow which inevitably deteriorates the living conditions. Mold can trigger allergens and other respiratory diseases.
- A faulty household appliance – Your refrigerator can leak or there can be a clogged pipe in your kitchen causing the sink to leak. When an interior appliance that operates with water malfunctions, it can flood your home and water can seep into the basement.
- Cracks in basement walls or floors- Over time, the walls and floors of the basement will crack or bow because of pressure and other issues. A crack, even if it a negligible one, can make your basement wet.
- Damaged gutter and downspouts- Gutters and downspouts are supposed to protect your foundation by keeping the rainwater away, a damaged gutter will cause water to enter the basement premises.
- Condensation- During the summers, hot air can come in contact with the cool basement walls creating condensation.