How do you know when it's time to replace your sump pump? Some signs that your sump pump can't be repaired include: noisy units, it stops working completely and electrical problems. Noisy Units - If your sump pump is making a load noise the entire time it's running, either the impeller is bent or the motor is going out. Turn your unit over and remove the screen, using your screwdriver. Inspect the impeller. If it...

Do you have a leaky bulkhead? Every time you go to use the bulkhead exit from your basement do you notice the floor around the stairs is always wet, especially after it rains? Sometimes you notice water on the ground outside the bulkhead could this be it? Or maybe the problem is water is leaking through at the floor wall joint. How can this be fixed correctly and what if is there more than one...

If you have already lived through the dreaded experience of a flooded basement, then you know how much damage it can cause. Even one inch of water can take many hours to clean up and causes thousands of dollars in damaged furniture and carpets. Installing a sump pump in your basement is your best defense to prevent flooding. Basement flooding is most often caused by water build up in the soil that makes its way...

Basement Dehumidifiers are critical for ensuring that moisture doesn't seep into the basement area—even if you have insulated your basement with weatherproofing/waterproofing synthetic applications. Moisture seepage is the most prominent cause of basement maintenance issues like mold, surface peeling or invasive dampness that seeps inside the house. An effective dehumidifier guarantees dryness in the basement, helping to prevent proliferation of dust mites and mildew. Further, most contemporary dehumidifiers are sold with air filters that help...

If your basement has a dirt floor, cover the floor completely with plastic to slow down water vapor coming through the soil. Use ventilation fans in kitchens and baths to control moisture. Check to make sure ventilation fans venting directly outside. In some cases the vent fan may have been installed to vent into the attic or become disconnected or blocked. Your clothes dryer should be vented directly to the outside. Inspect the vent duct....

Why basement waterproofing is a good idea Do you have problems with a damp or leaking basement? You’re not alone. There are millions New England homeowners with the same problem. But, rather than ignore the problem and suffer the consequences, you can fix the problem, and here are three reasons why you should. Even if you don’t use your basement for anything other than storage, moisture will lead to mold and mildew. Toxic mold can...

Cleaning and Killing Mold Killing mold that is already visible is actually quite easy. A simple borax solution is enough to do it. Borax is a common cleaning material, but unlike bleach, it is capable of killing mold on porous surfaces. Additionally, borax does not give off harmful fumes, unlike bleach or many other cleaning agents. However, borax is toxic, so keep your children and pets away from it. Mix 1 cup of borax with...

Be thorough and inspect your basement regularly by checking the following where applicable: HVAC Systems - Check the drain pans and remove debris to allow free flow. Inspect the filters and replace whenever needed. When inspecting the HVAC, look at the duct work and seal deteriorating insulation. Pipes Condensations - Pipes condensation is a common plumbing problem caused by sweating pipes. This problem promotes mold corrosion and rot if ignored. Insulating your pipes will reduce...

Preventing basement flooding is much easier than having to deal with a flooded basement. It’s generally easy to ensure that your home, basement and foundation are protected from flooding. Here are a few steps you should take to help protect your basement. There are a number of issues that can cause basement flooding including inclement weather, hot water tank leakage, freezer leakage, sewage pipe leakage, or washing machine leakage. Basically, basements flood because they are...

Damp Basement - The source of your damp basement problem could be a water leak or high humidity. Both can lead to mold, mildew, or other biological growth. Depending on the severity, conditions can lead to rot, structural damage, premature paint failure, and a variety of health problems. Water can seep into your house from the outside through a leak in the foundation, or small gaps around windows or doors. Water can also come from...