Typical Causes of Basement Moisture Problems

The following list is by no means exhaustive, but it highlights some of the most common causes of basement moisture:

1. Groundwater and Rain

One inch of rain may not sound like a lot. But this actually represents more than 1,200 gallons of water dumped on a standard 2,000-square-foot home.

And in the Carolinas, we annually experience way more than one inch of rainfall.

With flash floods, erratic wet seasons and climate change, the sheer volume of water hitting our homes is astronomical. Improper foundations and poor irrigation often deposit groundwater around and under residential basements, leading to excessive moisture buildup.

2. Interior Moisture

Another common source is human activity. Showers, dishwashers, humidifiers, and laundry machines all create moisture buildup — even in well-ventilated homes with excellent plumbing. As your home settles, water can quickly accumulate behind walls and in crawlspaces, wreaking havoc on your basement.

3. Condensation and Ventilation

In many regions of the country, the transition between seasons is usually gradual. But when changes in humidity happen too quickly, the interior and exterior of your home don’t have enough time to adjust. This is especially problematic in the Carolinas where seasonal fluctuations happen rapidly and without warning.

4. Capillary Action

If the walls and floors of your basement are too porous, they can actively suck in moisture — in much the same way that plants draw up water through their roots.