INSPECTION TECH – HOME INSPECTION BLOG

DO YOU HAVE A WET BASEMENT?

In this section we will cover some common causes for wetness in the basement, give examples of the types of damage that can occur, and provide some helpful home maintenance tips. Water damage and penetration into basements is typical to many areas including North-East Ohio. It is however often avoidable.

Basement dampness is frequently noted in houses and in most cases the stains, moisture or efflorescence present is a symptom denoting that a problem exists outside the home.

Expensive solutions to basement dampness are frequently offered, and it is possible to spend thousands of dollars on solutions such as pumping out water that has already entered or pumping of chemical preparations into the ground around the house, when all that may be necessary are a few common sense solutions at the exterior perimeter.

However, this is not intended to be an exhaustive list of causes and solutions to the presence of moisture.


CONTRIBUTORS TO A WET BASEMENT

· Walkways or driveways that are close to a house, and pitched toward the house deposit rainwater against the foundation wall.
· Patios that have settled towards the structure should be mudjacked or replaced to assure proper pitch. Improperly pitched patios are an additional source of wet basements.
· All landscaping should maintain a positive grade away from the structure, this will help to keep your basement dry. The recommended grading is 1” per foot for approximately 5-6 feet.
· Grass or ground cover are recommended for landscaping that contacts the foundation walls. Mulch, railroad ties, and other similar landscaping tend to trap moisture and may contribute to wet basements.
· Roof water is often the source for wet basements. Gutters are used to direct water away from the foundation. Gutters must be kept clean and well maintained.
· Gutter downspouts must direst water away from the foundation either through underground drain tiles, or through extensions.
· The amount of water which enters a window well from falling rain is generally slight, but water will accumulate in window wells if the yard is improperly graded. Plastic window well covers are useful in keeping out leaves and debris.

GROUNDS SECTION

We always try to walk around the property prior to the client arriving. This way we can study the house from a Macro perspective. We start by examining the "lay of the land", we note if the house is on a hill, the slope of the grounds around the house, etc... We observe the general condition of the home exterior, the landscaping, the roof, the driveway and make notes of areas of concern. This way when the client shows up, we are prepared to take several trips around the property pointing out any problems or maintenance items that may be needed.

REPORT EXAMPLES

- Balconies without railings or unsafe railings (safety hazard)
- Settling cracks that are trip hazards on walkways and driveways (safety hazard)
- Railings are needed for three (3) or more steps (safety hazard)
- Wood surfaces that come in contact with the soil (Rot/infestation potential)
- Grading and sidewalks where the grade is pitched towards the home (Wet Basements)
- Condition of gutters including proper slope, seams, downspout discharges (Wet Basements)
- Condition of landscaping, erosion, evidence of insect infestation.

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Welcome to the new Inspection Tech blog. This page will contain tips on various home improvement and home inspection topics. Check back throughout the year for useful money-saving techniques for maintaining your home.