Moisture Control Tips for Elizabeth, NJ

Moisture Control Tips for Elizabeth, NJ

Did you know that according to the Köppen Climate Classification system, Elizabeth, NJ, has a subtropical climate? That is right: you are living somewhere with basically the same climate as parts of Brazil, the Philippines, and India.

If you take a minute to think about it, it's probably not that surprising. The hot, humid summers here are brutal. Being as close as we are to the Atlantic, we get our fair share of moisture, as well as the heavy rains that spring and summer brings.

This is why waterproofing is so important for residents of Elizabeth, NJ and union county NJ. High levels of humidity in your basement can lead to serious problems for the rest of your home. But here are some things you can do about it.

Start at the Top

Start by looking at your gutters. When it rains, your gutters should lead the water down and away from your home. But there are many things that can go wrong up there. If gutters are clogged or in disrepair, you'll end up with water pooling and potentially running down to your foundation. Make sure your external drainage system works all the way from the gutters at the top to the end of the drainage pipes where the water comes out.

Check for Cracks

Check your foundation thoroughly for cracks. Small cracks that seem harmless enough actually bring a great deal of moisture into your home. Even if it hasn't rained for a long time, the moisture in the soil can be pressed through these cracks in a process known as hydrostatic pressure. Inspect your crawl space for cracks as well. When you find cracks, get them sealed.

Check Your Landscaping

Make sure that the land around your foundation slopes away from your home's foundation. Otherwise, water can pool against the house and this water can seep into the basement.

Invest in a Humidity Meter

A humidity meter is a small device for measuring indoor humidity. You can pick one up from your local hardware store for as little as $10. You can use this meter to monitor humidity levels. The best range to be in is 30% to 50% relative humidity. Once you reach about 60% you start to have problems.

Proper Insulation

You need proper insulation not only for your basement walls but also for the utility pipes that lead to the basement. If you smell a musty odor in the basement or see signs of condensation, this is an indication that you already have a problem. You should act immediately. Don't wait until the next heavy rain puts your basement underwater. Moisture control isn't damage control. If you take preventative measures beforehand, you can keep your basement dry no matter how wet it is outside.