Is There Water Damage in My Norristown Basement? | SERVPRO® of Norristown

8/12/2021 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Norristown is a full restoration company. Our team can help you determine the best course of action.

A basement is an extremely versatile part of one’s home. You can use it for extra storage space, or spruce it up for an extra den or living area; maybe, just maybe, you can put in that music studio you’ve always dreamed about down there.

However, the most well-designed, well-planned basement is still prone to water damage over time. This risk is unavoidable, because basements carry it by nature due to the fact that they’re built into the ground.

It’s not an absolute guarantee that your basement will have a water issue, but it’s certainly a risk you should be aware of. Let’s examine some of the top indicators that you should be on the lookout for as a homeowner. And don’t worr—if you discover something that needs attention, we’re right here to help.

Common Indicators of a Basement Water Issue

Unpleasant, musky odors. Most people are familiar with the odor that often greets guests as they trek downstairs. In fact many people operate under the assumption that all basements have a musky smell, but this really should not be the case. This smell will only arise when mold and mildew are present in the environment, and while you may not see them yet, if your basement smells funky, chances are good that water has seeped in somewhere.

Flaking paint on masonry or walls. People often think that because a paint is labeled “waterproof” that it will create an impenetrable barrier for their basement walls or blocks. Sadly, this just isn’t true in the long-term. While the paint may keep visible signs at bay for a while, it will eventually bubble and crack just like regular paint, but probably only after a bigger problem has already built up behind it.

Foundational cracks. While homes do shift over time, cracks in the foundation aren’t considered normal, and they can be signs of water damage. Cracks can show up in the floor, the ceiling or in your walls, and they often indicate that strain is being put on your structure because of a foundation that’s been cracked by a leak. If a hairline crack in your ceiling or wall grows to anything bigger, it’s time to call a foundation expert to take a look.

If you notice any of these signs in your basement, let us take a look. Our expert water restoration technicians can help you determine what is causing these issues and how to treat it properly. Contact us today to learn more.