Taking Care of Basement Moisture Problems – Leaky Pipes

If a pipe leaks intermittently or stops leaking during dry weather, it is probably a condensation problem. Ground moisture can force its way through almost any basement floor or wall, and into the air. Once the moisture is circulating in the air, it will eventually reform as water droplets, clinging to exposed pipes.

One of the easiest ways to prevent condensation on pipes is to prevent moist air from reaching them in the first place. This can be done by wrapping pipes in plastic foam pipe wrap. This foam can come in sheets or as ready-to-use aerosol spray that dries to a hard, white coating that can be painted or primed. Insulating hot water pipes is also a good idea to help prevent heat loss and save on energy.

Once the plastic foam has been installed, seams need to be wrapped with duct tape. It is usually best to wrap all exposed pipes to eliminate this source of moisture collection. If wrapping all pipes is too extensive a project, the best advice is to wrap as much surface area as possible. The less piping that is exposed to the ari,he less condensation that will occur.

In the past, homeowners used fiberglass pipe wrap to deal with dampness. Unfortunately, fiberglass material is not waterproof, and actually absorbs water. Over time it can harbor mold and mildew. Adding a plastic vapor barrier to fiberglass wrap is a cumbersome and time-consuming process, it is most effective to use the plastic foam products.

While moisture may be greatly reduced, it is almost impossible to eliminate it entirely from the basement. To lessen humidity, and decrease damage to furniture, stored items and air quality, a dehumidifier can help. Basement moisture problems don’t have to be significant to require action, so staying on top of issues will keep a homeowner from facing larger problems down the road.

Thanks for the guest post from:

David Goldberg –  Home Inspector

phone: 301-913-9213 
fax:  301-774-4554 
Reliable Home Services, Inc.
PO Box 5159
Laytonsville, MD 20882
ASHI Member #101584
MD License #29322

*          *          *          *          *
If You have a remodeling project in mind, contact us for a list of professionals we’re proud to recommend.