Continued from Part 1 Basement Waterproofing Blues and Hues Part 2 The most serious basement waterproofing problems are caused by the rising water table, because the basement then is like a boat on a lake with a hole in the hull. As bailing is the only answer for the boat, a sump pump waterproofing system is the only way to solve this type of flooding. Just because a home has a sump pump is no reason to pass it up. Sump pumps are common and a very viable solution to rising water tables. I have seen the water table under the floor of many basements that were perfectly dry. There is no reason a sump pump should detract from the value or desirability of a home. Mold and unpleasant odors are often associated with damp basements, but these problems are often the result of excess humidity and condensation of moisture from the air; operating an efficient dehumidifier (with windows closed!) is the cure, not a $2000 bentonite clay treatment of perimeter soil or major basement waterproofing systems. Determining the source of the wetness can generally be easily determined. Many times homeowners do not know if they have a water leak or a moisture problem. Sometimes homeowners think they have a leak and need basement waterproofing when in reality they really have a condensation problem caused by high humidity. Does water only show up in the hot summer months and never get wet in the cooler months? More than likely you have a condensation problem. To do a simple test to determine if you have a condensation problem, place a Condensation Puck on the floor. This Puck is designed to turn bright red if you have a condensation problem - a simple test method (see the BasementDepot Store - Condensation Puck). Alternately, tape a twelve-inch square of aluminum foil to a wall that is prone to dampness, sealing all four sides as airtight as possible. In a day or two, examine the aluminum foil. If the outside of the aluminum foil is wet, a condensation problem exists. If, on the other hand, the inside of the aluminum foil is wet, a seepage problem exists. The first thing to resolve a condensation problem is to identify the water source and correct the problem. Sources of water include leaking pipes, leaking or sweating well tanks, a faulty sump pump or leaking discharge pipe. Repair any leaking water and insulate all water pipes, particularly cold water. Open windows or dry your clothes with a clothes dryer that's vented to the outside. Make sure there is adequate ventilation. Sunlight and air movement can quickly dry out dampness. Ventilation needs to be regulated according to weather conditions. During times of hot, humid weather or long rainy spells, keep your windows closed. The air outside will contain more moisture than the air inside. Also, during warmer weather, the use of an air conditioner helps to cool and dehumidify the air. If the condensation problem persists, try using a large capacity dehumidifier to eliminate the problem. Make sure it is working properly and not just running. Basement waterproofing may not be your problwm. Don't live with a moldy area. Spores are tiny and airborne (or shoe-borne) and find their way upstairs in many insidious ways. They can cause or exacerbate a variety of respiratory illnesses. Be dry and breathe long and healthy! More Information on Basement Waterproofing at the BasementDepot Basement Waterproofing | Finishing | Remodeling | Concrete Repair | Finished Basements | Foundation Repair | Mold Removal | Mold Remediation | Sump Pumps

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