Basements are the most vulnerable part of your home to water damage. They suffer cracks, burst pipes, and water leaking in from the rain and melting snow.
Waterproofing your basement will protect it and the rest of your home from major damage from water and moisture.
What is Basement Waterproofing?
Basements, by nature, are not moisture controlled. Any moisture problems that find their way into your basement can spiral out of control quickly.
These areas of the home flood easily and trapped moisture turns into a breeding ground for mold and mildew. To keep the area clean and dry, every home equipped with a basement should be waterproofed.
For interior basement waterproofing near you, an experienced waterproofing company will make sure there are no cracks letting water in, and they will seal off the space from air and moisture. You can also receive a warranty covering any materials used during installation or craftsmanship.
Prevent Basement Flooding
One of the major concerns with water getting into your basement is that once it gets in, it has nowhere to go. During a season of heavy rainfall or melting snow, water can drain into a vulnerable basement and cause flood damage.
To prevent basement flooding, make sure you have proper waterproofing techniques in place. You’ll also need a sump pump installed to keep your basement dry.
Just remember, a sump pump alone won’t do the trick. In the event of a power outage, the pump won’t operate, so you need your basement waterproofed as well.
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Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth
A basement that isn’t properly sealed off is prone to trapping moisture and humidity. Even if the basement never floods, it is still subject to any outside conditions. Fluctuations in moisture and temperature create perfect conditions for mold and mildew to grow.
These spores growing in your basement can spread to your home. They are not only hazardous to your health but can cause major problems to allergy sufferers. Waterproofing your basement can hold back the moisture that leads to mold and mildew growth.
Protect Your Home’s Foundation
You should never find standing water on your property, or water that is leaking into your home. Excess moisture is one of the worst environmental factors you can expose your foundation to.
It can weaken your home’s joints and cause cracks. This leads to structural problems over time that are incredibly expensive to repair. Most of the time, you don’t even know there is a problem until it is too late to prevent it.
Waterproofing your basement helps to control the moisture around your home’s foundation, preventing structural damage to your home.
Save Money on Insurance Claims
When you discover flooding, mold and mildew damage, or structural damage, you may need to file an insurance claim to correct the problem.
After meeting with the adjuster to assess the damage, he or she will discuss what portion you are responsible for, and how much your policy covers.
After filing a claim, there is always the possibility that your premium will increase, too. While insurance is there to help with these major repairs, they can still be very expensive. By waterproofing your basement, you greatly reduce your risk of having to file an insurance claim.
Lower Your Utility Bills
Waterproofing your basement also means you are sealing it off from outside air. As outside temperatures and humidity fluctuate and take over your basement, it affects the efficiency of your HVAC system.
Your home’s temperature and humidity will change, depending on what it receives from below. If your HVAC system has to combat those outside forces, it will work overtime, raising your utility costs.
But when you properly waterproof your basement, you put less strain on your heating and cooling units, saving your money.
By taking care of this much-needed repair, you are not only protecting your home but opening yourself up to new possibilities. One added perk of a waterproofed basement is that it provides the potential for extra living space.
If you have ever considered a basement remodel, waterproofing is a must. With a properly sealed-off space, you can create a home office, extra bedroom, or game room to extend the square footage of your home.
