Keeping Your Damp Basement Dry

A damp basement can be bad for several reasons, the most obvious of which is the mold that can develop.

This is the type of environment that mold thrives in. This green or black powdery substance is dangers if inhaled. If your basement is damp and dark, this is exactly what mold needs to grow.

Generally a basement will be cold since it is, by definition, underground. If it is damp too, it not only is cold, but also an uncomfortable place to be. You'll start to feel cold and clammy after a short while. The good news is that there are ways to keep the dampness out. And the better news is that it is a relatively inexpensive procedure to keep the moisture from ruining the basement and everything in it.

The first and most simple step is to get a dehumidifier. No longer will the moisture setter on you floors, walls and furniture. Simply place the dehumidifier in the corner of the room and you notice a real and immediate difference in a damp basement.

A good sealant will also keep the water and moisture out. Keeping water out is important for the reasons already stated. It creates a damp atmosphere as it drives and provides a breeding ground for mold. By using a sealant to keep the water out you'll be reducing the dampness. A third thing you can do, depending on how your basement is set up, is install plenty of windows. The breeze will carry away the dampness and the sunlight will help dry it up. If you can install a door, so much the better for preventing a damp basement.

In addition, a damp basement is also like a wasted room. Chances are it will not be used unless the dampness is dried up. Wood will rot, and items like furniture and pool tables will be ruined over time. So take care of the problem before it gets out of hand. Not only will it be good for your house and the items in it, it will turn the basement into a room you can use and enjoy.