Nashville, Murfreesboro, Knoxville and Chattanooga TN
Did you know what is the leading cause of water damage in basements? It’s the failure of your sump pump. If this system malfunctions, the buildup of water in your basement can lead to structural damage, costly repairs and even health hazards. Today on the blog, we examine five potential health risks from a wet basement and how your basement waterproofing experts in Nashville can help.
Five health risks from a wet basement
- Mold and mildew: Mold and mildew are fungal organisms that grow and thrive in dark, moist environments. A wet basement, then, provides one of the ideal locations for mold to flourish. Ameri Care Services can provide mold services to remediate any areas affected, and then focus on eliminating the moisture from your basement.
- Bacteria and viruses: The environment of a damp basement encourages the growth and spread of bacteria and viruses. Any contaminated water and surfaces further increase the risk of sickness, infection or disease.
- Dust mites: Dust mites are microscopic insects that feed on dead skin cells. Like mold and mildew, these mites also seek out places that are moist and warm – such as a wet basement. The build-up of dust mites also can trigger allergies, which may manifest as sinus congestion, sneezing or itching.
- Pest infestation: Even a small area of standing water can serve as an inviting waterfront resort to pests seeking a place to shelter or reproduce. Rodents, termites and several species of insects can be attracted to these areas of water. If cockroaches or rats enter your basement, their droppings can aggravate existing health problems, and the bacteria within this waste poses an additional risk.
- Electrical hazard: Many houses have electrical wiring or fuse boxes in their basements. As we all know, water and electricity do not mix. The wetness in your basement could lead to a short circuit. If that water reaches the wiring, it can mean burns, shocks or even electrocution. In the event of a flooded basement, you should turn off the electricity at the nearest source before inspecting for signs of water damage.
Sump pump repair and basement waterproofing in Murfreesboro and Nashville, Tennessee
If you have a sump pump in your basement but it begins to malfunction, having a wet basement is just one of the potential negative consequences. Ameri Care Services can upgrade your sump pump; we offer models made by Zoeller. We also can replace the motor in an existing sump pump with a new motor built to address areas of high water volume or run for a lengthy amount of time. We also can address the moisture in your basement with waterproofing services, completely drying the area and then recommending services to keep it dry in the future. We also can install a basement dehumidifier to help address subsequent accumulation of moisture in your basement.
Stop living with the health risks that are associated with a wet basement. The team at Ameri Care Services is here to help. Visit us online or call (615) 893-7111 to schedule a consultation today.