By Karl Cuthbert, Real Estate Response Team – Liberty Basement Systems
When it comes to your home’s health—especially below-grade spaces like basements and crawlspaces—air quality matters more than most people realize. And not just for the people who live in the home, but for the health of the home itself.
As a professional in the basement waterproofing, crawlspace encapsulation, and foundation repair industry, I can tell you this: if the relative humidity (RH) in your basement or crawlspace is above 55%, you’ve got a problem.
Why 55% RH? Because that’s the tipping point where moisture starts to create an environment for mold, mildew, dust mites, and structural damage. Keeping air below that threshold is one of the most critical things you can do to protect your investment—and your health.
Here’s what excessive moisture in a basement or crawlspace can lead to:
- Mold and mildew growth
- Musty odors that travel through your HVAC
- Respiratory issues and allergy flare-ups
- Wood rot and compromised structural integrity
- Pest infestations (termites, rodents, etc.)
- Reduced property value and saleability
- Higher energy bills due to inefficient HVAC performance
It’s common for homeowners to throw a dehumidifier in the corner and think the problem is solved. But without eliminating the sources of water intrusion—cracks in the foundation, poor drainage, missing vapor barriers, open vents, or lack of sump systems—you’re just bailing water out of a sinking boat.
A high-quality dehumidifier is a great tool. But it can’t fight a constant stream of moisture or standing water. The best air purification system in the world won’t stop mold if there’s still moisture and organic material for it to feed on. Paint, drywall, wood framing—once moisture hits these, they become fuel for mold spores.
The bottom line is simple: don’t just treat the symptoms. Treat the cause. Moisture and water intrusion are the cause. Until you handle those first—through proper drainage, encapsulation, waterproofing, and foundation repair—everything else is just damage control.
If your home is experiencing any of the issues mentioned above, don’t wait. Reach out to a professional team that understands the relationship between structure, moisture, and air quality. Because what’s under your home is just as important as what’s in it.
In my experience working closely with the real estate side of things, there’s one truth I’ve seen proven time and time again: a home seller who identifies and resolves basement water intrusion or foundation issues before listing the home not only sells faster—they often walk away with a better deal. In fact, preemptively addressing these issues can save the sale of a home from falling apart during inspection. More importantly, it can preserve—or even boost—up to 30% of the home’s value. That’s a game-changer when it comes to negotiations. Top agents know that a dry, structurally sound basement is a huge selling point. It’s not just about fixing what’s broken—it’s about protecting your investment and putting your best foot forward in a competitive market.