April Showers: Seasonal Basement Moisture

April Showers: Seasonal Basement Moisture

As April brings its seasonal showers, many homes develop or show signs of unwanted moisture. Unfortunately, a wet basement is not the beginning of a problem. Rather, it is often the evidence of a continual issue that can hinder your basement, your wallet, and even the health of you and your family.

There are several reasons that moisture may enter your home. In addition to seasonal increase in rainwater, air currents and air pressure likewise contribute to home moisture levels. In a perfectly functional home, these are still factors for moisture.

Another way in which moisture collects in a home is through the various materials in the building’s structure. Moisture moves through porous building material, cracks, and leaks in a home’s basement structure.

As air naturally rises, whatever air is in your basement is likewise in the rest of your home. Considering the scientific fact of air pressure and rising heat, it is all the more paramount to inspect your home for moisture and protect your overall wellbeing.

Added moisture in the spring may manifest as a mold problem. While it is widely known that some molds, such as black mold, are incredibly harmful, it is not as well known that any mold poses a health and safety hazard. Pesky allergens and irritants are an inherent part of mold spores. In fact, some people experiencing sickness and allergies may be unaware that the cause of this health issue is inside their home, rather than outside in the natural landscape.

East Tennessee’s specific climate dictates a moderate to great amount of precipitation in the spring, meaning a breeding ground for mold exists even before any leaks or cracks in a home’s structure may facilitate such.

In addition to posing as a health hazard, basement moisture can damage drywall, carpeting, and framing. Whether your basement is finished or not, moisture may buckle or warp the floors of the level above, meaning maintenance costs for multiple levels of a home.

While moisture in the basement of one’s home poses a risk at any time of the year, let this spring weather serve as a timely and helpful reminder to have your home fully inspected for and repaired of any and all unwanted moisture. Master Services has the expertise, the dedication, and the resources you need to protect your home, you, and your family from preventable home and health hazards.