3 Ways to Increase Ventilation and Eliminate the Damp Basement Smell

That damp basement smell is unpleasant, musty and dank. Preventing it is far better than having to cure it. Good ventilation in your basement, no matter how large or small the space is, is vitally important.

1 – Air

If your home is brick built or brick foundation you can insert air bricks into your basement. It is simple enough procedure if they are not already fitted. Air bricks have small holes which allow fresh air to circulate the basement and keep it from becoming damp. If you home is timber structured you can still use ventilation bricks, but check your local DIY store for advice on what to get.

2 – Damp Proofing

Running a course of damp proofing around the floor and lower foundations of your basement will prevent too much dampness creeping in. Flood protection is also advised, to stop the water from staying inside once it gets there. Damp coursing can be painted on using a special dampness preventing paint.

3 – Heat

Keeping a regular temperature in your basement will also help to dry out any slight dampness that gets in. When an atmosphere is naturally cold it will attract dampness. If you keep your basement heated to at least sixty degrees throughout the year you have a better chance of stopping the spread of dampness through your basement.