Whether your basement is finished or unfinished, there are some specific aspects of caring for it that you should be aware of. Unfortunately, one of the things that homeowners often disregard - and shouldn't - is waterproofing their basement.
Many people assume that a basement is already waterproof or that moisture is just a side effect of having a basement. The truth is that waterproofing your basement could save you a lot of money on repairs and water-related issues.
Check out these 5 reasons to waterproof your basement.
Forget Flooding
It is true that basements can get water in them or even flood when there is heavy rain. Flooding can occur if you are close to a large body of water that floods or because of Mother Nature's attitude. It might even flood because of a failed sump pump or a burst pipe.
If your house or your basement floods, it can wreak havoc on your home. Waterproofing your basement could help prevent it from flooding when water events occur.
If excessive rain or flooding in your area doesn't make its way into your basement, you will have far less damage and fewer repairs to contend with after the fact.
When a basement floods, it's not just water in the basement that becomes a problem. Water in the basement can lead to foundational issues, bacterial issues, and of course damage to any personal property in the basement. Basement flooding could also lead to mold issues.
Reduce Energy Consumption
If you've been dealing with a basement that isn't waterproofed, you probably have no idea just how much that is affecting your energy costs. While it might seem like an insignificant issue for your energy consumption, it actually does make a difference.
Maybe you have noticed that your heat or your air has to work harder to keep up or you notice a draft when you're in the basement. This is most likely because your basement needs to be waterproofed.
From draftiness to extra heat or humidity in the basement, waterproofing can help to improve this issue. Over time, waterproofing will save you money on the cost of energy and just how much energy you have to use to cover those drafts or extra humidity from the basement.
Mold Prevention
How much do you know about mold growth? The optimal environments for mold to grow are places that are humid, places that attract extra moisture, and places that are dark and dank.
Your basement can be dark, moist, and maybe even warm. It probably invites extra humidity into your home. All of these things describe the perfect place for mold to grow and flourish.
Flooding isn't required for moisture to get into your basement. A little bit of rain can lead to water leaking in. Because the basement is more susceptible to moisture, it is also more susceptible to mold growth.
The best way to prevent mold growth in your basement is to waterproof the basement and keep that extra moisture on the outside, where it belongs.
Foundational Strength
While you probably won't notice your home's foundation deteriorating overnight or even over a month, it will wear on your home over time. If moisture can get in, it can lead to a lot of foundational problems that will cause you significant issues later on.
Moisture can cause the foundation of the walls to bow or crack and maybe even sink. This is the base of your home that holds it up, so if the foundation in the basement begins to fail or weaken, it will affect your entire home at some point.
You may find yourself spending a lot of money to have your foundation reinforced. However, you might be able to be proactive and prevent this type of issue by waterproofing your basement and protecting the foundation of your home.
Improve Home Value
If you need to sell your home, a waterproofed basement could work to your advantage. This does add value to your home because it is an added layer of protection from the elements.
You can use waterproofing to your advantage and maybe even finish up or remodel the basement because you simply don't have to worry as much about what's down there.
Waterproofing your basement will surely provide a return on your investment at some point, and probably in more ways than one.
Every little update or repair you make to your home makes a difference. Whether you choose to waterproof just to prevent water from coming in or you want to be able to finish the basement, this process adds value to the home.
What is Basement Waterproofing?
Waterproofing your basement is meant to protect your home and to give you better control over what happens in your basement. This is a job that requires professionals, and it can be done at any time.
Ultimately, waterproofing is exactly what it sounds like. This process is used to prevent water from making it into your basement and leading to a variety of issues. When a basement is waterproofed, you can worry less about water in the basement and more about just enjoying and using the space.
There are several ways that a basement can be waterproofed. This includes sealing, adding drains, or adding and maintaining a sump pump. You can also have exterior waterproofing done as well.
Waterproofing Services
Drycrete Waterproofing is a professional, reliable, and knowledgeable team that provides basement waterproofing solutions. From waterproofing solutions to concrete crack repairs, we've got you covered.
With more than 30 years of experience, we've been helping customers with their basement waterproofing and concrete needs. Quality is our top priority, and we strive to provide reliable and consistent service regardless of what your basement needs might be.
Give us a call today to see how we can help with your basement.
