Perma-Seal News and Information

The Basement or Crawl Space – Damp and Humid

The one feature that sets the basement apart from other levels in your home is the ambient dampness. That’s not surprising is it?  After all, a deep hole was dug to accommodate the basement, and the earth is typically wet and cold (about 55 degrees Fahrenheit) year round. Solid concrete is a pretty good thermal conductor — it lets heat pass right through it — and is somewhat porous; is it any surprise that your basement or crawl space feels damp and humid? For years, cellars were built under homes with the full expectation that they would be a cool, wet space, not fit for habitation but ideal for root vegetables and vintage wines. Today, expectations have changed. People recognize the potential value of their below-ground space, be it a basement or a crawl space, and want to be able to use it confidently for storage, living, and even for entertainment purposes.