Most basements, because they are built into the ground, present the possibility of invasive water, making what was once a dry basement into a wet basement. This is because water in the soil can put constant pressure on basement walls. Also, water follows the path of least resistance and over time can find its way into a basement. With real estate transactions there are more problems with wet foundations and basements than any other physical...

The purpose of a dehumidifier is to lower the humidity of the air in your home.  Humidity is a measure of the moisture suspended in the air at any given time.  Moisture levels are higher during different seasons.  In Massachusetts, humidity levels are much higher in the summer than in the winter.  Home dehumidifiers are mostly used to dry air in the basement or crawlspace.  These areas are prone to high humidity levels because they...

In order to know how to waterproof a basement, you need to know how water enters the basement. There are many different ways water can enter the basement:  floor / wall joint, floor or wall crack, or through the bulkhead, to name a few. Here we are going to talk about how water enters through the floor/wall joint. The floor/wall joint is the most common entry source of water entering the basement. This is where...

If you find that there is mold growing in your home from a wet or damp basement, you need to act fast in order to remove it. However, if you have a mold problem that covers more than a 10-foot by 10-foot area, consider calling a professional. When dealing with mold removal, be careful, once mold is disturbed it will release mold spores that can cause additional growth, or those spores can lead to health...

If basement water problems can be solved, you can gain some valuable storage or living space.  There are two ways to go about approaching water issues. The first is to address the leak from the outside of the foundation and the second is to deal with the problem from the inside. From both directions, there are waterproofing techniques designed to seal water out, and others that are designed to divert water from the foundation. Waterproofing...

For weeks now, our hearts have poured out to the thousands of our fellow Americans who have (and will) fall victim to the worst flooding in our country’s history.  As we continue to address home foundation leaks and cracks throughout New England, we are warmed by the compassion expressed by those we serve while they themselves suffer the effects of foundation cracks and water damage. A recurring conversation that we have with our customers involves...

Mold problems might occur with home basement dampness or flooding. Mold is a living organism that thrives in wet or damp environments. Usually, the food source for mold is cellulose such as the paper on drywall, wood products or paint on concrete. It can even appear on the surface of metal in the right conditions.   Therefore a home and its contents are a food source for mold. Many people believe that molds can be...

You need a dry basement for a healthy living environment. There are many ways that water can enter your basement. One of the most frustrating is a bulkhead leak. Most bulkhead leaks are a result of movement between the bulkhead and the foundation. Usually, bulkheads are separate units which are bolted to the foundation wall. During installation a black rubber seal is put between the foundation wall and the bulkhead unit.  This rubber seal is...

Sometimes, no matter what, when you live in a flood zone,  your house will flood in heavy rain. I have a friend who lives on a street called Water Row Lane, and last year their neighborhood had to collectively rent the Boston Duck Boats for 2 weeks to transport them from their homes to their cars in a nearby parking lot. Water, might be good for flowers, plants, and trees, but it’s not so good...

A leaky basement can be a nightmare. Regular dampness can cause mold growth and musty smells, stored items can be ruined, and the foundation of your home can even be damaged by regular water.  If you have moisture, drips, seepage, or other water related issues in your basement, you need to get it sealed and dried out fast, before bigger problems develop. The first step to eliminating the moisture problems in your basement is to...