A damp cellar is not only annoying but also harmful to health. In addition, moisture reduces the insulating effect. As a result, frost damage can occur more quickly in winter. To combat basement moisture, you need to know where it comes from. Does it concern leaking pipes, condensation or poorly insulated walls.
Moisture control on the outside
In damp cellars there are various ways to prevent moisture formation and to achieve a durable and dry result. The basement can be renovated both inside and out.
Disadvantage: clearing the outer walls
Moisture in the basement is often best combated from the outside. The disadvantage, however, is that you have to completely expose the outer walls for this. And that is not always possible. Vulnerable areas can best be repaired and sealed in this way. In this way you realize a professional seal. Not really something for the average handyman. Only experts should make such repairs. This is to prevent mistakes from returning to damp walls.
Moisture control from within
Moisture control on the inside is very useful, because it can actually be carried out at any time. For instance:
- provide the cellar walls with mineral sealing;
- Treat plastered walls with special restoration plaster.
Apply a horizontal seal
Most modern houses have a so-called horizontal seal. This must prevent the penetration of moisture. Is such a seal not yet available? Then it can also be applied afterwards. One possibility is it injecting the outer walls. Holes with a diameter of 8 to 10 cm are drilled and then filled with a special mortar. This creates a continuous seal that must prevent rising moisture.
Increase in value and savings on heating costs
Those who have moisture in the basement should not be put off by a thorough basement drainage. Because a neat cellar not only increases your own well-being. It will also increase the value of the home. That makes an adequate moisture treatment certainly worthwhile. But apart from the value-enhancing effect, renovation of the basement is in any case a very useful activity. Not only does your basement remain free from rotting processes and mold. It will also lead to a reduction in heating costs. Those who renovate their basement thus achieve three things:
- he creates a better quality of life;
- at the same time increases the value of his home;
- and often also saves on heating costs.
Penetrating moisture and condensation
There are two main problem areas in damp basements:
- penetrating moisture from the outside;
- condensation in cold rooms.
Both lead to damage to masonry, mold and unpleasant odors. It is wise to have a basement renovation carried out by a professional. It recognizes precisely the weak points of the house or cellar, and can proceed from there in a very targeted manner.
Condensation due to cold
If the basement is cold, there are multiple options conceivable:
- thermal insulation. Special insulation boards or styrofoam chips (styrofoam granules), for example. They prevent the cold from moving from the bottom to the top;
- applying the precast elements in the outer wall. Due to their construction, they form an air flow that lowers the temperature on site by at least 1 degree. And because moisture always tends to find the coldest place, the precast elements slowly but gradually dry the wall;
- and do they want to use the basement as an extra living space? Then one must also install heating system. Because this is the only way to prevent condensation on the walls;
- in addition, you need a basement like any other room in the house regular airing.
Bad condition of the outer walls
However, is the basement damp and does it even show small cracks in the stucco or mold on the walls? Then that basement has to be re-drained and insulated. By the way, there can be several reasons why a basement is wet:
- if moisture forms at only one point, you should check for leaking pipes;
- however, have all basement walls been affected? In that case, the moisture is usually due to poor insulation of the outer walls.
In any case, it is advisable to seek professional help to repair the damage. Especially if you want to use the basement as extra living space.