All of That Snow is Melting. Is Your Home Ready?
All of that snow Michigan got recently is starting to melt. Is your basement or crawl space ready?
The end of winter and start of spring are prime times for water issues to make themselves known. Melting snow will seep into the soil around your foundation, and then will leak into your basement through cracks or rod holes. Even if you don't have cracks or rod holes, water can still seep in through the floor/wall joint. Add heavy spring rains, and you could have a big mess on your hands.
If you have had water issues in your basement or crawl space, now is the time to have an expert assess the problem so you can avoid issues this spring.
If you haven't had water issues or you aren't sure, now is the time to check the space and keep an eye on it.
So, what should you look for? Obviously, water is a sign, but there are other things that could signal that you have a problem.
Look for cracks. Even if the cracks aren't leaking, they could in the future because they only get worse over time. Because of this, it is best to get them checked by a professional who can seal them permanently and prevent issues. Also beware of rod holes – they are often a culprit in poured concrete walls.
Mold is also another sign your basement has moisture. While checking for mold, keep your eyes open for peeling paint, too. You might only have moisture or condensation for now, but the mold and mildew will soon follow.
Beyond visual signs, a musty smell is a telltale sign there is some sort of water issue.
