Category Archives: wet basements

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Avoiding A Wet Basement

Many homes in northern Illinois have dealt with a flooded basement or faced water damage from flooding or cracks in their concrete walls.  While we can't do much with the forces of nature like excessive rain or snow, there are many other things we can control.  Things we can control include proper home maintenance and knowing what to look for.

Flooded Basement; Woman Cleaning Up

Common Sense Tips

  • If your basement area is finished, look for dampness or musty odors.   Inspect the area behind the finished wall.  Because mold is a hazard, remove any mold growth you see.  Hire a qualified contractor to check for mold.  SKV Construction will inspect your home or building for foundation cracks and structural damage.  We must have access to your foundation walls.
  • Have a qualified contractor inspect your sump pump.  Make sure it is in good condition.  The contractor will check the sump pump basin for debris and will check the float for proper operation.
  • Besides that, make sure your roof gutters are clean, and that there is proper flow to the downspouts.  It is very important that your downspouts are clean and that water is directed away from the home.
  • Clean out window wells.  Check if water accumulates in the well.  Install a window well drain if water stays in the window well.
  • Check the grade around your home when it rains for water accumulation at the base of the foundation.  Consult with a professional landscape contractor to test the landscaping in your yard.  Excavation and re-grading may be necessary.

SKV Construction offers assistance in identifying the source of the moisture problem.  We will provide direction for potential solutions.  Contact Us for a no obligation proposal.

Wet Basement Drywall Presents a Hazard

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Consequence Of Drywall Damaged By Water

Water damage to drywall is common.  It is the result of a basement moisture problem.  Wet basement drywall is a common occurrence in homes throughout the country.  Left untreated, wet drywall leads to damage to your walls, the growth of mold,  and mildew.  This situation must be corrected.

In the image below, water from a plumbing leak damaged the floor.  Seepage to the drywall occured leading to mold growth.  This problem was serious and needed correction quickly!

Wet Basement Drywall With Mold Growth

How To Identify Wet Basement Drywall

Areas of discoloration, bulging, sagging, sloping, and wall cracks are evidence of damaged and wet drywall. Interior plumbing pipes contribute to the problem as condensation can drip along the pipes, damaging the ceiling or the walls.

You believe you know the source of the moisture problem.  But damaged drywall and mold growth can exist in areas away from the moisture source. It isn't always easy to tell when drywall is wet beneath the surface.  Using a moisture meter will allow you to know when the drywall has been compromised.

One good thing is that if you can see dampness in your drywall, the walls were probably painted with a couple of coats of flat or semi-gloss paint.  Those finishes breathe a little, so the drying job will be easier.

Again, wet drywall is a breeding ground for unhealthy mold growth. Address the moisture problem quickly!  Mold growth from moisture is dangerous black mold that causes respiratory problems. Flu-like symptoms may also occur for your family.  If you are experiencing this, you need our professional help.

SKV Construction will identify the source of your moisture problem.  We will make recommendations on fixing the wet drywall and removing the mold.  In addition, if foundation cracks or concrete floor cracks are contributing to the moisture problem, SKV Construction will provide concrete crack repair solutions consistennt with the severity of the problem.

If you have wet or ruined drywall in your basement, Contact Us for a no obligation proposal.

Why Chicago Basements Flood?

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Flooded Basement In The Chicago Area; Why & What To Do

Many Chicago area homeowners have experienced the sickening feeling of looking at a flooded basement. The dirty water, ruined furniture, ruined clothes, and even ruined mementos are heartbreaking. "Why my basement?" is a common question.

Concrete walls and floors are subject to water seepage, even from miniscule cracks. Moving water seeks the path of least resistance. Therefore, water will accumulate:

  • in window wells
  • seep through windows
  • accumulate in a low area
  • and seep through foundation cracks

Water Damage From Lack of Attention vs. Planning for Window Well Water

Building experts say it is impossible to build a perfect foundation wall. So, even if the foundation is perfect when poured, cracks in your foundation occur due to:

  • temperature changes
  • shifting soil
  • settling of the house

Basements most vulnerable to water leakage and foundation cracks are those that:

  • are completely below ground
  • have improper drainage in the landscape surrounding the home
  • have the landscape "pitched" towards the house
  • where the soil medium around the foundation doesn't have enough gravel
  • where the solid medium is packed with clay

Another common reason you may have a flooded basements is improper management of water from the roof.  Water from the roof is not captured properly due to:

  • poor design of drain spots
  • clogged gutters or no gutters
  • not getting the water away from the house fast enough

Drain Pipe Separated From Downspout

Sump pumps can help relieve the potential for water in the basement. But sump pumps don't run when there is a power outage, unless you have standby electric power.  And at times, rising water can overwhelm a sump pump.

So what can a homeowner do to prevent a flooded basement in Chicago? There are preventative measures you can take!  The first step is to give your basement walls a thorough inspection for cracks.

You will want to call us if you see foundation cracks.  We are foundation crack repair specialists, and we are a Chicago area foundation repair contractor.  We can help!  Contact Us.

The second step is to clean up any water damage and mold growth that has occurred.  Do that quickly!  View our post on the hazards of wet basement drywall.   With over 50 years of experience, we're here to help you.

Removing Basement Mold

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Basement Mold Removal

Basement mold removal is necessary.  Basements are usually not heated, except for the furnace. Therefore, potential for moisture in a basement is great.  View our post on basement condensation.  Moisture is a breeding grounds for the growth of mold and mildew.  

Mold destroys the contents of a basement. Wood, tiles, wallpaper, carpet, insulation, and the contents stored in the basement are affected. Control the level of moisture and humidity in your basement and prevent the growth of mold.  So, what must be done to eliminate mold growth?

Lack of a basement waterproofing system is the biggest contributing factor for basement mold growth. Once mold spores begin growing, they continue to grow until the source of the moisture is eliminated.  Most of all, basement mold growth is prevented by having moisture control products in place.

Mold removal is vital for keeping any basement safe for your family.  In conclusion, know the steps needed to eliminate mold.

Severe Damage to Wall From Basement Mold

Steps To Removing Basement Mold

SKV Construction offers assistance in identifying the source of the mold. We provide direction for basement mold removal.  Contact Us for a no obligation proposal.

In some cases the homeowner wishes to remove the mold.  Hence, it is incumbent upon the homeowner to know the safety issues involved.  The homeowner must have the proper equipment, and use a safe mold removal product.  

Listed below are the basic steps for removing mold from your basement.  Make any concrete repairs, foundation crack repairs, and water leakage repairs before proceeding with mold removal.

  • Identify the mold. Mold is usually black, white, and has blueish patches.
  • Identify and prepare areas where mold exists.
  • Scrub the mold with a safe mold removal product following the manufacturer's instructions.  Do not use bleach.
  • Cleanup, rinse, and repeat the scrubbing until all mold is removed.
  • Dry the areas scrubbed for at least 3 days .  The dry time is dependent on the degree of moisture, temperature, and humidity in your basement.
  • Install a dehumidifier, fan, or circulate air from the furnace fan to help dry out the area.
  • Seal the areas scrubbed with a stain blocking primer.
  • Paint or finish as desired.