When it comes to basement water damage, some signs are obvious, e.g., mold, mildew, musty odors. Others are more discreet, like bugs. It’s not that homeowners aren’t concerned about seeing bugs in their homes, but many are completely unaware that the presence of certain bugs is a surefire sign of moisture damage, and catching them early can prevent a number of issues. Seeing a basement bug or two is no big deal. But if you’re seeing these creepy crawly bugs in your basement or crawl space, you’re most likely experiencing water problems.
Centipedes
Again, seeing one centipede in your basement or crawl space doesn’t mean you need to enter full panic mode, but if you’re seeing them consistently, you should be a bit concerned. You’ll have to be diligent when looking for them, though, since these hundred-legged bugs come in many shapes and sizes. They’re carnivorous, but they have tiny jaws, so they can’t do any real damage. Keeping your basement dry is the best way to prevent these critters from making their way into your home, but maintaining a clean home overall is also an ideal prevention method.
Sow Bugs
You may not recognize the name of these bugs, but you’ll almost definitely recognize them upon seeing them in your home. These bugs are infamous for rolling up into a ball, and they can make their way into a wet basement or crawl space surprisingly easy. Though they have their benefits outdoors and in gardens, they do nothing but cause trouble indoors, and what’s worse is that they can be difficult to get rid of. The first step, of course, is to resolve the cause of the moisture and consider investing in basement waterproofing solutions.
Silverfish
No, we’re not talking about seafood — we’re talking about the silvery-gray creatures that are notorious for appearing in moisture-ridden basements and crawlspaces. If you start to see groups of these bugs near your basement walls, it’s definitely time to look into ways to ensure a waterproof basement.
More than 27 million homes in the U.S. have crawlspaces. Knowing about these moisture-loving bugs is important, but you can prevent the risk entirely by investing in waterproof basement and crawlspace solutions that are right for your home.
