If you have a house in Minneapolis, MN, even the occasional flooding is cause for worry. It’s not just furniture damage you need to worry about, but also your basement floors and stairs. Moisture in your basement stairs can cause mold and mildew, not to mention the risk of slipping on a wet stairway.
The rainy season could also cause moisture leak in your basement from rainwater and groundwater seeping through your foundation walls, roof, and basement windows, among other places. Get your foundation sealed today by a reliable foundation repair contractor and save expensive repair costs.
Getting Started
The first step in getting rid of moisture in your basement is to ensure rainwater from your roof flows away from your walls or foundation. A series of well-connected, non-leaking gutters will come in handy in collecting and channeling water from the roof. The gutters should direct the roof water to drain pipes at different parts of the house. Don’t forget the downspouts. Make sure these pipes direct water away from the foundation or walls by about eight feet.
Besides the gutters and downspouts, also think about the grading of your yard. If the soil around your house slopes toward your basement, there’s a high chance you’ll experience foundation leaks. A landscaping professional is key in getting the slope away from your house. Trim your hedges and the bushes around your house to enhance drainage.
Doors and Windows
Most people overlook their doors and windows when sealing off their basement stairs. Left unsealed, these two fixtures can encourage basement moisture and leaks. Caulking is one the most inexpensive ways to seal your doors, but often replacement of windows, roof flashing, and vents is needed.
Dealing with Cracks
You may think cracks are acceptable since they are so common, but that’s really not the case. Some cracks are serious, while other hairline cracks may not be. If you have cracks around your foundation walls or floors, have a basement expert at Innovate Basement Authority to inspect them. These cracks could be the reason your Minneapolis, MN, basement stairs have problems. Your foundation repair expert will assess the severity of your foundation cracks and recommend the right solution best suited for your repair needs.
Sump Pumps and Dehumidifiers
With regular flooding, it is hard to control water flow into your basement. In addition to an interior drain system, a sump pump will make sure your basement isn’t fully flooded. A sump pump will remove any water that collects and overwhelms the basement area. For humid basements, a dehumidifier works great. This device dries out the air, removing any lingering moisture. Talk to your local basement expert for help selecting one that works for your space. They know what type of sump pump and dehumidifier suits your home.
Waterproofing the Staircase
The last and probably the best option for your basement stairs is waterproofing. Find out what waterproofing solution works for your basement staircase to avoid wood rot or mold buildup.
Waterproofing may involve an interior drain as well as a wall vapor barrier to ensure your stairs stay strong for years to come.
Take the Next Step
Say goodbye to rotten or mold-infested basement floors, walls, and stairs, and have your basement waterproofed by a highly specialized team from Innovative Basement Authority. Get your free basement waterproofing inspection and quote today!
