Surface water - Drainage of rainwater, melted snow, roof water

Ground water - How the foundation interacts with water in the ground and how it is separated

Lifestyle - Firewood, showers, bathing, cooking, hobbies

Leaks - Roof leaks, plumbing leaks, window leaks

Water runs downhill. Surface water that comes from rain and melting snow, coupled with poor grading around buildings, means it leaks into our basement or crawlspace. In some cases it causes flooding, in other instances it results in slow, hidden leaks with hidden damage and health effects. This moisture can also be moved by diffusion and/or capillary action.

The changing water table in the ground is based on seasonal fluctuations. In some instances a high water table, if not pumped down or drained away, can cause flooding in basements or crawlspaces. Even in instances where it doesn't cause flooding, it often means considerable moisture is being drawn into the home by diffusion and/or capillary action..

Depending on how a house is used it can be dry or wet - cooking styles, managing laundry, number of people, plants, pets, hobbies, cleaning, firewood, bathing/showers, running ventilation equipment can all add moisture to the indoor areas of the house.

Studies have shown that leaks can be a real problem in initiating dangerous mould growth. All the more reason to stay on top of roof leaks, plumbing leaks (toilets, sinks, shower), leaks around windows and doors, etc.