Basements or cellars are often forgotten in the grand scheme of things where people move into a new house or office building. If you have recently moved into a big house and you have a basement, you would do well to inspect it from time to time to make sure there are no cracks or mould build-up due to dampness. Cracks caused by damp in a basement can eventually run down to the foundation of the house or building causing it to wear down faster.
A common question regarding dampness in basements and cellars is why there is dampness at all if the whole space is built from solid concrete. The easy answer to this is that damp accumulates in more than one place inside the building itself and eventually settles down in the basement. This is especially evident in hot and humid areas. It is common for basements to get no natural light or sunlight at all and this also creates a breeding ground for moisture.
In order to stop this from happening, waterproofing a basement or cellar is absolutely imperative. Once the space is waterproofed, the moisture from above will not be able to settle inside. When it comes to proper waterproofing, you need to consult a professional. Most contractors who deal with damp repair will suggest installing a membrane system in your basement.
This system opens up a new space for moisture to accumulate outside of the walls in the basement. Air that is collected behind the walls via the membrane system will also ensure that the moisture collected will be dried up quickly. This solution is very easy to install and won’t cost a fortune.
Should you choose to take care of the problem on your own, you might want to consider damp proof paint for the walls in your basement or investing in a dehumidifier. It is however advisable that you consult a professional when assessing the level of dampness in your basement or cellar before you proceed.