When it comes to basement maintenance, some basic knowledge and simple tasks will be sufficient for keeping up this area of your home. Here, we’ll cover what you need to know for maintaining your unfinished basement.
By code, we are required to insulate unfinished basements. This is done with a drape style insulation with a vapor barrier of plastic that’s put over the top. Sometimes you can get condensation behind the plastic- not to worry, newer insulation is treated, so typically mold and mildew aren’t a problem. You can simply cut small slits in the plastic to allow the condensation to escape.
The term “cold storage” refers to a concrete room, typically under your front porch. These rooms are not water tight, nor are they required to be insulated. Depending on the direction your home faces and the amount of sun and frost exposure, the concrete walls will react to the outside exposure. They can be somewhat warm or can also condense on the inside when cold. These are a good place to store items, but be aware, moisture can penetrate them and temperatures can vary.
It’s a good idea as part of your annual homeowner maintenance to re-caulk the basement windows where the frame meets the foundation on the exterior of the home. This should be done with 100% clear exterior grade silicone caulk.
By taking these steps, you’ll be able to enjoy your home for years to come! Click here for more maintenance resources for keeping up your home interior and exterior.
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