Basement water damage is not an uncommon problem in U.S. homes. In fact, statistics report that 98% of basements in the U.S. will experience water damage during their lifetime. Just like any other water disaster in the home, basement water damage can lead to a large-scale problem and may even cause irreversible damages if left undetected or neglected for a long time. It would require the intervention of a professional water damage restoration company, like ServiceMaster of Cobb, to bring the area back to its pre-disaster condition.
While the first signs of basement water damage may be subtle, being on the lookout for early moisture indicators could save you money from repairs. Read about the sources, signs, and prevention of basement water damage in this article by ServiceMaster of Cobb, Georgia’s leading disaster restoration, cleanup, and repair company.
SOURCES OF BASEMENT WATER DAMAGE
Water that enters or floods the basement can stem from a range of sources. These can be:
- Groundwater or Rainwater Seepage
- Flooding or Burst Pipes
- Leaks
- Sources of Moisture Inside the Basement (showers, humidifiers, etc.)
- Ventilating the Basement with Humid Air from the Outdoors
SIGNS OF BASEMENT WATER DAMAGE
How do you know if there is moisture in your basement? Keep an eye on the following signs of water damage.
VISIBLE CRACKS
Water surrounding the home’s structure or foundation can release pressure and result to cracks in basement walls and floors. Pay attention to small cracks and have them sealed or repaired by professionals immediately before they grow in size. Shifting or displaced walls may mean that the house is being dislodged from its foundation; call the experts at once.
DETERIORATING BUILDING MATERIALS
When building materials are exposed to water damage, they can deteriorate. Peeling paint could be the first sign of water damage in the basement. Check the cement under the paint beginning to flake, also known as spalling, and white salt deposits accumulating on the foundation, also known as efflorescence. Both spalling and efflorescence occur when water is present, and they may be the early signs of structural failure. Call in the professionals for assessment.
SINKING FLOORS
Sinking floors could mean that the home’s foundation is experiencing damage or that soil is eroding under it. Have professionals assess the situation before it escalates to a costly problem.
MUSTY ODORS AND MOLD GROWTH
Pay attention to any strange smells present in the basement. If a musty odor is noticed, it’s likely a sign of mold or mildew growth. Mold thrives on damp environments, so check for leaks regularly especially during times of high moisture, such as heavy rains and flooding.
If the smell remains persistent even after thorough cleaning, dehumidifying, and adding ventilation, call a mold remediation expert.
STAINS AND DISCOLORATION
Water-damaged materials experience discoloration, usually appearing as a yellowish-brown stain on walls and floors. Call a water damage restoration service after noticing these spots.
OTHER SIGNS OF WATER DAMAGE IN THE BASEMENT:
- Saturation of Concrete Wall Bases
- Water Trickling from Walls
- Condensation Developing on the Walls and Floor
HOW TO PREVENT BASEMENT WATER DAMAGE
Save thousands of dollars in repairs by following these steps:
- Address basement and foundation cracks upon notice.
- Grade the yard such that water flows away from the house.
- Maintain sump pumps regularly.
- Clean drainage and sewer systems, as well as septic tanks.
- Get a flood insurance policy.
BASEMENT WATER DAMAGE? CONTACT SERVICEMASTER OF COBB, THE TRUSTED PROFESSIONAL WATER DAMAGE CLEANUP, RESTORATION, AND REPAIR COMPANY IN GEORGIA AND TENNESSEE
The longer basement water damage sits unnoticed, the greater are the cost of repairs that come with it. Water cleanup is an emergency in business and residential properties, which is why the water damage restoration technicians at ServiceMaster of Cobb are on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and 365 days a year. We have been serving customers for 23 years in Georgia, providing our expertise and commitment to excellence that can help you get your life back on track.Our team at ServiceMaster of Cobb is certified to handle your water damage regardless of its category. We have also earned the distinction of Quality Restoration Vendor (QRV), which allows us to participate in special insurance company vendor programs. After your basement damages are repaired by the appropriate service, we’ll work with your insurance company to get your restoration claims processed quickly.
