The Six Best Ways to Keep Your Basement Dry

Basements in Ohio will always hold moisture due to our weather, but the wall should not be saturated. Too much water in the walls can lead to mildew, mold, or even structural damage.

Regular maintenance will prevent serious and costly problems down the road. In the home inspection business, we see homes that are cared for, and we see homes that have been neglected. Neglected homes always have water issues and possibly mold and structural issues.

Take inventory of your property and perform the necessary maintenance to keep water out of your basement.

1. Clean your gutters as much as needed depending on the trees and leaves.
2. Extend your downspouts 6 feet away at every downspout.
3. Adjust the landscaping so there is a 1-inch slope for every foot, at least 4 feet out from the foundation.
4. Install window wells at all basement windows. If they are installed, keep them clean.
5. Seal all cracks and open seams around the house, driveway, and patio.
6. Periodically test your sump pump. Install a backup battery to be prepared in a power outage.

TK Home Inspection will inspect for areas of incoming water, moisture intrusion, and mold in the basement, crawlspaces, and attic. We will provide you with a referral for a mold mitigation professional upon request. Call us at 330.361.5505 or visit us online at www.tkhomeinspection.com/book-now to schedule your mold inspection.