5 Common Warning Signs of Basement Water Damage

#1: Mold or mildew

Mold loves moist environments. It grows rapidly on drywall, paneling, floors, cupboards, furniture, carpet and even clothes. But keep in mind that mold could also be caused by trapped humidity and poor ventilation. Get a professional to help you track down the cause.

#2: Efflorescence

When water penetrates into your foundation and dries, it leaves a white mineral deposit on the inside of your wall. This is an early warning that you’ve got too much water coming into the walls – the time for action is now.

#3: Musty smell

Many older homes have a distinctive earthy odor associated with mildew and mold growth. Look for the source of the mold, clean it (or hire a professional if it’s a big job) and search for the source of moisture or water leaks.

#4: Wet concrete wall or floor

The most obvious sign of a problem is a damp wall or a pool of water seeping from a corner joint, hole, crack or drain. Paint will bubble, flake and fall off a masonry wall it is chronically wet, so signs of discoloration are usually symptoms of water leakage.

#5: Cracked foundation or slab

Cracks can occur during the curing and settling phase of your basement foundation or floor slab. Water pressure (hydrostatic pressure) under the floor and outside the foundation can make these cracks even bigger, creating an entry point for moisture. Cracks can occur in horizontal and vertical directions, and should be dealt with promptly.