As temperatures fall across Australia, basement repair specialists Dryspace Solutions is warning that the hidden impacts of belowground water leaks can lead to condensation, mould and worsening moisture problems in homes over winter.

“As temperatures drop, condensation becomes more likely in homes already affected by hidden moisture. That creates the ideal conditions for mould to develop over winter,” confirmed Dryspace Solutions Managing Director Jamie Stone.

“Over summer and into autumn, we’ve had that consistent warm air that dries a lot of that built-up moisture away, which may have been leaking into your belowground spaces. No longer do we have that luxury and therefore need homeowners to be vigilant in the Australia-wide fight against mould and its detrimental health effects on families.”

Such are the dangers of mould exposure in Australia, a *report on biotoxin related illnesses, looking at evidence regarding the possible impacts associated with exposure to mould, was tabled in Parliament.

 

These risks highlight the importance of identifying and rectifying persistent belowground moisture problems early. The company is encouraging homeowners to investigate recurring signs of moisture ingress before winter conditions make the problem worse.

“Mould can create potential health concerns in the home by negatively impacting air quality. In a lot of situations most people don’t even realise it’s there. What may appear to be a little bit of surface mould, can indicate more extensive contamination throughout the home,” added Mr Stone.

“It’s vitally important for homeowners to catalogue a diary of activity detailing when their belowground spaces begin leaking. There needs to be consideration for what weather conditions were prevalent, what lead up rain events had occurred, how much rain had fallen, and what were some of the tell-tale signs of water penetration, such as the presence of a musty, damp smell, or visible signs of moisture build-up, including mould on affected surfaces.”

Signs homeowners should look out for include:  

  • Active water leaks:The most common point of entry is through the wall at the wall/floor junction, but can also be through cracks and unsealed penetrations in the substrate
  • Damp patches on walls:This sometimes presents as a discolouration of the wall, or patches that are damp, wet or cold to touch
  • Efflorescence:White powdery deposits on walls that can indicate moisture movement through masonry
  • Mould & Mildew: Common in damp, poorly ventilated spaces and often worsened by persistent moisture
  • Rotting Timbers & Architraves: Occurs after onset of ‘mould and mildew’ and can result in the structural integrity of the building being compromised
  • Bubbling Paint:A sign that moisture may be trapped behind or moving through walls, floors or ceilings.

Leaking basements and belowground areas are a year-long frustration for homeowners, so Dryspace Solutions is urging homeowners to investigate persistent belowground moisture issues now.

With winter conditions increasing the visibility of hidden moisture problems, the company says early investigation and remediation can help homeowners avoid more extensive mould and water damage.

About Dryspace Solutions

Dryspace Solutions is an Australian basement and belowground rectification company specialising in waterproofing, moisture management and structural remediation. Since 2011, the company has worked with homeowners and businesses across Australia to address water ingress and improve the usability of belowground spaces.

*Inquiry into Biotoxin-related Illnesses in Australia (2018) https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/House/Former_Committees/Health_Aged_Care_and_Sport/BiotoxinIllnesses