- By Christian Sundahl
- In basement waterproofing, Bowed basement walls, foundation repair, foundation wall cracks, foundation waterproofing
How to Check Your Foundation Waterproofing Vapor Barrier Garrison, NY
How to Check Your Foundation Waterproofing Vapor Barrier Danbury, CT
There are various measures available today for foundation waterproofing. One such measure is the installation of a vapor barrier. A high-quality vapor barrier is essential for keeping basements and crawlspaces dry. These large sheets made of plastic-like material are often installed on walls and floors of basements and crawlspaces. They keep water vapor out of these spaces and are therefore important for spaces that have had issues with high humidity levels.
Signs that Your Vapor Barrier May Be Failing
Even high quality vapor barriers do not last forever. All vapor barriers have a limited lifespan. However, with proper care and maintenance, your vapor barrier can be a long-term foundation waterproofing solution.
So, how do you know when your vapor barrier is in need of maintenance? Aside from carrying out regular foundation inspections, there are various signs that will tell you that your vapor barrier may be failing. These include:
- Inconsistencies in temperatures in the home. You may notice that some rooms are colder than others. This may be due to the penetration of moisture in the foundation.
- Increase in utility bills. Higher humidity levels may be making it harder to heat or cool your home.
- Higher levels of humidity. If the humidity levels in your home have increased, it may be due to a failing vapor barrier.
- The presence of mold or mildew. You may notice a musty smell indicating a mold infestation. The presence of mold is a sign of high humidity levels or the presence of moisture. This may indicate a problem with your vapor barrier
- Standing water in the basement is an obvious sign of water seepage. You should, however, inspect your plumbing to ensure that the leaks are not a result of a plumbing problem.
How to Check the Vapor Barrier
If you suspect that there is a problem with your vapor barrier, it is important to confirm your suspicions and then take action to protect your home’s foundation. You should check for the following:
- Cracks in the basement
- Moisture in your insulation
- Mold or mildew in the insulation or drywall
- Water stains or actual pools of water
- Condensation on the interior surface of the walls
If you notice any of the signs above, contact a foundation waterproofing contractor to have your foundation inspected. They can provide you with a solution for the failure of your vapor barrier.
Contact the Professionals at Sundahl Waterproofing Today! 914-834-9212
