Michigan basements are somewhat distinct. These basements in older homes are usually made from exposed rock and mortar, and have a unique look and feel. However, these basements, like any basement, can have issues with moisture and drainage. Let’s take a look at the interventions that can help with moisture problems in Michigan basements, without damaging their distinctive appearance or compromising their structural integrity.
Of course, a “Michigan basement” might refer to any basement, finished or unfinished, in the state of Michigan. However, a “Michigan basement” is also used to describe a distinctive type of basement found in many older homes in Michigan and other areas in the Midwest.
Michigan.gov actually defines a “Michigan basement” as the following: “A former crawl space which has been dug out, generally to a depth of 5 to 7 feet to allow a basement. The excavation begins approximately 2 feet in from the inside of the existing foundation walls in order to preserve the soundness of the existing foundation walls and footings.”
These basements originally were only made of packed dirt. However, they may also contain rock or they might be covered by concrete or other materials. The distinctive Michigan basement is almost always unfinished, and finishing a Michigan basement is generally not advised. These areas are susceptible to moisture problems and pests, and it can be difficult to install the comforts of a finished basement.
Let’s take a closer look at moisture issues in Michigan basements, when it might be time for an intervention, and what drainage systems are best for Michigan basements.
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Michigan basements can be affected by the same moisture problems that can affect any basement. There are some unique construction factors that can make these distinctive basements more susceptible to moisture issues, too.
Condensation in basements can create a layer of moisture over the floor, walls, and other surfaces in the area. This occurs when warm, humid air from the outside enters the basement and contacts the cooler air and cooler surfaces. The humidity turns to a thin layer of moisture. If the Michigan basement contains rock or concrete, the condensation will collect on these surfaces.
Michigan basements were generally dug out by hand to expand a crawl space and create a storage area. Even if they have been covered by concrete or rock, they’re still likely to be susceptible to cracks and water damage. Hydrostatic pressure will push moisture against the walls and into the basement, especially if there are vulnerable areas.
Older homes were generally smaller than many of our homes today, and additions or expansions to the home can put pressure on the basement walls that it was not originally designed to handle. This can cause the walls or buckle, bow, shift, or crack. If this occurs, it can endanger the structure itself.
When considering drainage systems for your Michigan basement, it’s important to consider the extent of the moisture problem as well as the best way to maintain the integrity of your basement. Let’s take a look at a few options.
One of the best ways to keep your Michigan basement dry is with a dehumidifier. This will be especially helpful if condensation is a problem, or the area feels generally damp, rather than experiencing problems with leaks or cracks.
Moving water away from the home as much as possible will help keep your Michigan basement drier. Make sure your gutters are taking water far away from the home. In addition, examine the areas where the gutters drain, and make sure the grade does not cause the water to move back towards the home.
Remember that Michigan basements began simply as dirt crawl spaces. The home’s stability depends on the dirt and soil around this space. French drains can be a good way to stop significant water and moisture problems, but this process must be done carefully. French drains are installed around the walls of the basement and empty into a sump tank. If these channels around the walls are not dug properly, it can compromise the stability of the walls.
Similarly, exterior drains must also be carefully dug to maintain the stability of the home. This exterior waterproofing method can be highly effective when done properly, as it moves water away from the basement before it actually gets in. An additional waterproof layer helps to repel moisture from the outside of the walls as well.
Michigan basements can present some unique challenges. If you have one of these types of basements and you’re struggling with moisture issues, talk with an expert.Contact StayDry today to get a free consultation, and let’s discuss the best drainage systems for your Michigan basement.
The StayDry® team has 100+ years of combined experience with basement waterproofing, foundation repair, crawl space repair, wall repair, and mold control.
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