Thread: Moisture Basement Wall

What are the signs your basement walls may be retaining moisture. I have purchased a professional moisture meter and it does not show any abnormal reading but visually what should I look for that may be a clue. The home is brick veneer.

Look for mold/mildew or musty smell. Look for plastic sheeting under the drywall (it should not be there). Basements are designed to dry in.

George

What model and make of moisture meter did you purchase?

Originally Posted by George2

What are the signs your basement walls may be retaining moisture. I have purchased a professional moisture meter and it does not show any abnormal reading but visually what should I look for that may be a clue. The home is brick veneer.

I am not very knowledgeable about basement moisture, but we have our moisture problems here in Houston. I find that measuring wood that is contact with the masonry is a more sure way to find moisture. Concrete can transmit moisture through pore channels which are difficult to find, and the moisture seems to diminish quickly after the wetting event. Moisture remains present in the wood much longer, and if you can find water-rot-deteriorated wood in contact with the masonry/concrete, you are boss.

You can tape a 12 inch X 12 inch plastic sheet to the wall and see how much, if any, condensation occurs.