Finished Basement Walls – Which Ones Survive the Flood

Benjamin Franklin once said that “in this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.” Of course, if you’re a homeowner with a basement, you can add one more to the list: flooding.

Are you renovating your basement? That’s great, but your basement is definitely going to flood. No, really. Your basement is definitely going to flood. Even if your basement never leaks through the walls, floor, wall/floor joint, vents, or basement windows, any of the following can still leak:

* Pipes
* Washing Machine Hoses
* Water Heaters and Water Storage Tanks
* Sinks
* Tubs and Showers
* Toilets

When this happens, if you’ve remodeled the basement walls with anything that can be ruined by water, you can expect enormous damage and expensive removal and replacement in your future.

So which products should you use when you finish your basement walls? (Hint- it’s not wood wall panels!) Let’s see how a few types measure up to the flood:

Drywall and Stud Basement Refinishing

Verdict: Destroyed by water.

Most contractors recommend tearing out drywall once it’s become wet. Wet drywall will eventually dissolve, releasing hydrogen sulfide, which gives the space the smell of rotten eggs. Additionally, damp drywall and wood will grow mold very quickly, usually within 24 hours.

Even when you can’t see the mold, you can be sure it’s there. Drywall can grow mold on both sides- so even if you clean or remove mold on the visible side, mold spores can still be adding allergens (and potential mycotoxins) as it thrives on the other side. Continue reading »