How to Tell If Your Kerhonkson Basement Has Water Damage

12/14/2020 (Permalink)

Don't stress if you find water damage in your basement, call the local experts from SERVPRO of Kingston/New Paltz! We're always here to help!

Whether finished or unfinished, basements are a great way to provide extra storage and square footage to your home and often serve as access points for plumbing, electrical and other household systems as well as extra living, sleeping or playing space. While basements are quite convenient, they also suffer the unfortunate reputation of being harbors for water damage—but fortunately, that does not have to be the case.

It is estimated that around 60% of homes with basements experience water damage, but do not let that scare you. Knowing what to look for in regard to basement water damage is simple and can help you catch small problems before they morph into major issues.

What to Look for to Find Water Damage in the Basement:

Condensation in the Area-

Condensation is what happens when warm, humid air comes into contact with cool surfaces, creating water droplets where it does. Condensation in the basement often appears on pipes, metal and appliances, though it can also be present on ceilings or walls or windows. If you have condensation in your basement, it generally means that the air is too humid, which could point to there being a moisture issue somewhere in the vicinity.

White Spots on Walls, Floors or Ceilings-

When water seeps into an area and then evaporates, it can leave behind white, chalky marks that are made up of the minerals the water contains. This generally means that water has been seeping in through the walls or the floor and is then evaporating away. If you notice any cracks or fractures in your basement walls, this is often where water will be able to seep in and create damages.

Wet Spots on the Floor-

Just as water can seep in through the walls, it can also work its way up through the floor and seep in that way. While this might not result in full-on puddles, you will generally be able to see evidence of wet spots on the floors, which are often especially prevalent after heavy rainfall. This can create musty odors, mold and a humid environment that should be addressed.

If you experience water damage in your basement or anywhere else, we are here to help. You can get in touch with us 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for any type or size water damage.