Get matched with top basement waterproofing pros in Alta, IA

No, your basement dehumidifier doesn’t need to be on 24/7. While it’s an excellent tool for tackling damp, musty air, especially in humid seasons, leaving it running nonstop can backfire. Over-drying the space can mess with your sinuses, warp wood, and even crack certain materials. Instead, only use your humidifier when moisture levels rise above 50%, and then give it a break when the humidity levels drop.

If you decide to fill the space around your home’s foundation with landscaping materials, it’s important to consider the aesthetic as well as technical factors like drainage and protection from pests and the elements. Materials such as gravel, rubber mulch, concrete, and brick masonry are all good options.

It is better to have a crawl space that is tailored to the outside temperature, your needs, and the season. For example, it is much better to have a vented space when it’s very hot outside and your AC bills are sky-high. Conversely, when the temperature drops and humidity rises, it is almost always better to have your vents shut and covered if possible.

While a standard gutter system is widely considered the most effective way to prevent water damage to your home's foundation, several alternatives are available. These options can be used on their own in certain climates or as supplementary protection.

Common alternatives include:

• Rain Chains: These are decorative chains that hang from the roof's edge, guiding rainwater to the ground.

• Drip Edges: These metal strips are installed at the edge of the roof to direct water away from the fascia. While often used with gutters, they can be paired with a ground-level solution but are typically not sufficient on their own.

• Rain Dispersal Systems: These systems work by breaking up the heavy sheet of water flowing off the roof, dispersing it over a wider area.

• French Drains: This ground-level system uses a perforated pipe in a gravel-filled trench to collect and redirect water runoff away from the house.

• Drip Paths: Placed directly below the roofline, these paths made of concrete, stone, or other materials prevent soil erosion and guide water away.

It's important to note that some alternatives like rain chains and dispersal systems may not be adequate in regions with heavy rainfall because they don't divert water away from the foundation as effectively as a full gutter system. Ground-based solutions like French drains can be very effective but are often more expensive and can affect your landscaping and curb appeal. Many experts recommend installing a full gutter system for maximum protection and using alternatives as supplementary measures.