Basement Moisture Solution in Gloucester Point, VA
Challenge
This homeowner in Gloucester Point called us at The Drying Co./ThermalTec about excessive moisture and dampness in their basement. We sent out one of our professional home advisors to evaluate the situation and get a clear picture of what the homeowner was experiencing.
Upon inspection, we found that water was seeping through the basement wall, half of which was underneath the ground level. The moisture had damaged the walls and was leaking on to the floors of the basement. If the leakage continues, eventually the relative humidity will reach a high enough point to where mold and mildew can begin growing on any organic material within the area.
The homeowners use the basement as living space, as well as storage, so many items, and furniture are at risk of becoming wet and damaged. Any mold and mildew growth can lead to bad indoor air quality for the homeowners. Prolonged exposure to mold spores can irritate those with allergies and cause asthma, and the spores can rise into the floors above.
Solution
The first thing the installers did was move all the furniture and belongings to the center of the room, leaving space to work alongside the walls. The carpet is pulled back from the walls, and the installers use a jackhammer to dig a narrow trench around the perimeter of the basement. WaterGuard, a below-floor drainage system, is installed within the trench along with drainage stone. WaterGuard is resistant to clogs, has easy-to-access parts, and is also able to collect leaking water from basement walls. Once it is properly placed, the trench is cemented back over, and the carpet returned to its normal position.
The WaterGuard is installed to drain to the sump pump. For this job we used a ½ Horsepower Zoller sump pump, with a basin and stand. The drain line from the pump was installed to penetrate the exterior wall and ends 10 feet away from the home in a predetermined location. With the moisture being drained out of the basement, the relative humidity is easier to keep under control, and the risk of mold and mildew growth is drastically decreased. The indoor air quality would allow the homeowners to comfortably occupy the basement space while keeping any items and furniture stored down there safe.
If you or someone you know is experiencing any basement moisture problems, then please call us at The Drying Co./ThermalTec for a free estimate! Our experienced and professional team will help make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.
