Dehumidifier
in Concrete Basement?
Added
January 4, 2007
Q.
I have a concrete basement and I’m wondering if using
a dehumidifier down there a good idea. I’ve got some
cracks in the flood, maybe it’s foundation settling
since the house is only two years old. I heard somewhere
that a dehumidifier can actually dry out the concrete
so much that more cracks will be caused. So far, the
cracks are only hairline, I don’t smell a musty smell,
and there’s been no water flooding the basement or seeping
in through the cracks.
A: No, using a dehumidifier does not
cause cracks in concrete. In fact, too much moisture
in a basement can actually be the culprit causing cracks.
Fortunately your damage is limited to the floor for
now and does not appear to be structural damage for
now. The dehumidifier is definitely a good idea, set
it at 55% to protect the items and appliances in your
basement. It would also be a good idea to have someone
come in and take a look at the cracks. You don’t won’t
to find out later down the road that the hairline cracks
on the floor are the start of a major problem. The cracks
could be from hydrostatic pressure which is caused by
moisture in the surrounding soil. This is not something
you want to let go, get it checked and repaired as soon
as possible.
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