Basement Dehumidifiers

Not only can you enlarge the living area of your home with basement remodeling, but you can also increase the value of your home. Depending on what you do, remodeling a basement can lead to major expenses. You should protect this investment with a good quality basement dehumidifier. We all know that basements usually have more moisture related problems than any other area of a house. In fact, over 60% of all basements in the U.S. have excessive moisture issues. Before you begin a basement remodeling project you should examine your basement for signs of potential water problems. You will save yourself a lot of time, money and grief if you discover the problem before you remodel.

The excess moisture that could be lurking in your basement can cause highly unpleasant odors related to mold and can seriously damage carpets, draperies, woodwork and personal items stored in your basement. Recognize these symptoms of excess basement moisture:

• Condensation on walls/windows
• Damp carpets
• Stains/spots on walls and floors
• Warped wood
• Blistering/peeling paint
• Damp draperies
• Strong, musty unpleasant odors

When you start your basement remodeling, putting a sealant on the concrete floor first is an excellent idea. Large volumes of moisture waft up through the soil into your basement. This is aided by the porous nature of concrete. Using a concrete sealant will also help prevent mold growth. If there is water in your basement you should check for leaky pipes, clogged gutters and drainspouts and improper landscaping and grading that can cause water to flow towards the house instead of away from it.

Another element that can hinder basement remodeling is wood rot. The price of wood is out of site today. Save yourself the unnecessary expense of replacing woodwork in your finished basement. It’s important to remember that wood rots for one basic reason: it’s moist. The frequently used term, "dry rot" is totally inaccurate because wood needs moisture in order to decay. When the moisture content in wood reaches above 20% it is vulnerable to decay. This is especially true for windows. Usually wood rot occurs in windowsills because high humidity in the basement is causing condensation. Condensation is much easier and cheaper to fix than water leaks. A basement dehumidifier is the perfect tool for eliminating condensation on basement windows, walls and floors.

Another headache brought about by excess basement moisture is termites. The last thing you want in your newly remodeled basement are termites devouring your new wood paneling. Termites exploit the small cracks in building structures to gain entry. Your basement can provide a hospitable environment for these destructive pests. Termites require two main things to begin an infestation in your basement: 1) an entry/access point, 2) a humid environment. By using a commercial grade basement dehumidifier you can keep these pests from damaging your home and belongings.

When you start remodeling your basement, don’t forget to include a basement dehumidifier. Keeping the air dry and comfortable in your remodeled basement will keep moisture and trouble away.