Calgary’s summer storms are quick, fierce, and often unpredictable. They roll in fast, bring heavy rain, and disappear just as quickly leaving behind soggy lawns, damp corners, and sometimes, a musty-smelling basement.
If you’ve walked downstairs after a storm and noticed a persistent damp or earthy odour, you’re not alone. Musty smells in the basement are one of the first warning signs that moisture is seeping into your home and your plumbing or drainage system may be to blame.
Today we will help you understand what causes that smell, what it might mean for your home, and how Calgary homeowners can prevent water damage and mould before it becomes a serious problem.
A musty smell is almost always caused by excess moisture and poor air circulation, both of which are common after a heavy summer rain. That scent is typically mould or mildew forming, either on exposed surfaces or hidden behind walls and floors.
In Calgary, this is often triggered by:
Over time, if the source of moisture isn’t found and fixed, this smell turns into mould growth, which not only damages property but can trigger respiratory issues, especially for children or people with allergies.
It can be hard to tell if the musty smell is from stormwater intrusion or a plumbing-related issue, but here’s how to narrow it down:
If you’re unsure, a licensed plumber in Calgary can use moisture meters and drain cameras to identify the source within minutes.
1. Ventilate the basement
Open windows, run fans, and use a dehumidifier to reduce humidity levels. A dehumidifier is especially important in the summer when Calgary’s humidity can rise suddenly after rain.
2. Check your sump pump
Make sure it’s plugged in, operational, and not clogged. Pour water into the pit to see if it activates. If it doesn’t, call for service immediately.
3. Inspect for visible water or leaks
Look behind furniture, in corners, and around appliances for damp spots. Lift rugs and check baseboards.
4. Use a mould-killing cleaner
Clean visible spots with vinegar or a non-toxic mould remover. Avoid bleach unless used cautiously and only on hard surfaces.
5. Call a plumber if you suspect water entry
Even if you can’t see it, water can pool behind walls or under flooring. Early intervention is far less costly than full remediation.
Absolutely. Your sump pump is your home’s last defence against a flooded basement during summer storms. In Calgary, where sudden downpours are common, your sump pump must be able to:
If the musty smell started shortly after a storm and your sump pump didn’t engage or struggled to keep up it may be time for service or replacement.
Intermittent musty smells are a red flag. It may mean that moisture is entering and evaporating, leaving behind mould spores that become active only when humidity rises again. This pattern often suggests:
This is a sign your basement isn’t fully sealed or protected from external moisture and you’ll want a professional to investigate before structural damage occurs.
To stop this problem at the root, focus on waterproofing drainage, and ventilation. Here’s what Calgary homeowners should prioritize:
These steps are not only preventative, they can help preserve your home’s value and reduce health risks from mould exposure.
At ERM Plumbing and Heating, we offer maintenance services that keep your home in top shape all year long. Our expert technicians are trained to identify potential issues before they turn into costly problems.
We offer a range of maintenance packages, including annual checkups that cover everything from air filter replacement to thorough inspections of your heating system.
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