Signs of a Basement Leak

Is your basement about to experience a flood, collapse or cause a big problem? Here are the most obvious signs of a basement leak. 

If you see mold or mildew growing anywhere in your basement then it is very likely that there is some type of excess water feeding it. Mold can be many colors but the most dangerous type of mold is black mold. If you see that growing anywhere in your house make plans to get a temporary place to stay and move out.  Your basement can also grow other types of things as well if it is “well watered”.  This includes fungus and even grass. 

You can also tell a leaky basement by the way it smells. There are usually musty smells and odors coming from bacteria, mold, mildew and fungus growths. You may also be able to smell damp earth and damp stone.  Water also degrades and rots thing so you are also smelling decay.  If you have a white chalky substance on your walls this is known as efflorescence and is a sign of a chemical breakdown. 

Yet another thing to looks for when it comes to the signs of a basement leak is discolored walls. When basements leak behind the wall the water that is carried is caused by pressure and usually leaves stains on the walls.  Even more obvious are the damp spots on walls. If the spot on the wall is damped this is a sign that your wall is absorbing water and will sooner or later be at risk of cracking or even collapsing.

Causes of a Wet Basement