Basement Waterproofing Tips: 5 Dos & Don’ts
Basement waterproofing and foundation repair are crucial to protect a home and its occupants. If water gets into your basement, the result will be damage to the structure, wood, mold growth, and expensive repairs. A properly waterproofed basement offers homeowners comfort and health and can even increase the value of the property.
If you would like to maintain your home in the best condition, waterproofing your basement is imperative. Below are five critical things that you should do and things that you should avoid to make your basement dry and secure.
Does Waterproofing add value? Some Essential Tips
Having a basement free of dampness is a great improvement that can substantially increase the value of your home. The right waterproofing steps prevent water penetration and ensure the safety and aesthetics of the room. The following are some of the key ‘dos’ that should be done to keep the basement dry and secure.
Start with a Professional Inspection
The first step in any waterproofing process is always a professional inspection. This step is important to determine the current state of the basement and to identify potential problems. Specialists can identify problems, such as cracks, gaps in the structure, or areas that collect water. Their trained eyes are more capable of seeing things that a homeowner may not detect easily.
Seal the Cracks and Gaps
A penetrating crack or gap that appears inconsequential is generally a starting point for water infiltration. Such small cracks could worsen very soon and cause many more complications. Treating these openings with a high-quality waterproof sealant is a simple and viable approach to combating moisture. It is important to deal with such cases at an early stage to avoid significant problems in the future.
Waterproof Foundation Walls
One of the most efficient ways of protecting a basement against water seepage is by waterproofing the foundation walls. Coating the exterior foundation walls with a waterproof layer assists in providing a waterproof surface. This process may use materials specific for this purpose to resist the pressure of the groundwater for a long period. It enhances your basement walls’ ability to withstand tough weather conditions and helps minimize leakage within foundations.
Use a Dehumidifier in the Basement
Indoor humidity can sometimes be a problem. It is especially common in regions that experience high humidity. One of the best ways to prevent high humidity in your basement is through the use of a dehumidifier. Dehumidifiers extract moisture from the air, which makes it hard for mold and mildew to grow in that area. A dry basement not only discourages mold but also enhances indoor air quality, thus making the area healthier and suitable for any kind of use.
Install a Sump Pump
A sump pump is an essential piece of equipment for any basement prone to water stagnation, especially in areas that are prone to flooding. A sump pump is designed to help remove any water that may seep inside the basement to avoid the accumulation of flood water. If you currently have a sump pump installed in your basement, testing and maintaining it frequently is crucial. For those who don’t own a sump pump, it is a worthy investment because it helps homeowners from spending repair costs on water damage in the future.
Is Basement Waterproofing Worth It? Things to Avoid
When doing waterproofing, it will be good to know some of the things to avoid, which are outlined below:
Don’t Ignore Small Signs of Water Damage
Any sign of water damage, including stains on walls, dampness, or a constant smell of mold, should not be taken lightly. These may well be indicators of more serious moisture problems. If not treated, they could result in issues such as structural decay or mold growth. Addressing these minor problems on time will save you a lot of money on repair, and your basement will always be in good condition.
Don’t Rely Solely on Interior Waterproofing
Interior waterproofing is good but should not be the only way of combating water seepage. Interior solutions are effective in dealing with water that has already penetrated, but they are not the best at preventing it. There are stronger protection measures that include the use of interior methods alongside exterior waterproofing. These include applying a waterproof membrane to your foundation or installing outside drainage.
Don’t Forget About Gutters and Downspouts
Your gutters and downspouts are vital constructions purely designed to channel water away from your home. If gutters are full of leaves or if downspouts are installed to direct the water close to your home’s foundation, you are risking leaks in your basement. By ensuring that your gutters are clean, you can avoid the pooling of water around the house. Gutter maintenance can be an effective method of preventing water troubles in your basement.
Don’t Overlook Proper Landscaping
As for landscaping, it is not strictly connected with basement waterproofing, but the slope in yards can easily affect water flow. When the ground outside your foundation is sloping towards your house, water will naturally flow towards the basement. It is likely to result in an increased rate of water flow in the basement. To avoid this, make sure that the ground around the house has a slope of at least several inches over a few feet. This landscaping shift, referred to as grading, can be useful in channeling water away from the basement to prevent water infiltration.
Don’t Attempt Major Repairs Without Expert Help
Homeowners can tentatively correct basement leaks using simple DIY solutions. However, major waterproofing of basements that involves extensive work requires the assistance of a professional. Attempting to complete large-scale repairs independently could lead to poor quality fixes, wasted time, and possible worsening of the problem. Complex repairs can be best addressed by professional help from reputable providers. They have the knowledge and proper equipment to deal with all the specifics of your basement, which makes sure the repairs are going to last.
Consult Professional Waterproofing Services
Hiring the right waterproofing service provider is key to delivering an effective waterproofing solution. It is best to let professionals inspect your basement and apply the appropriate waterproofing solutions. They will ensure that your basement is fully protected from moisture and water. A professional team can also guarantee that your basement stays protected from future problems.
