What You Need to Know About Basement Waterproofing

Most homes built today come complete with a finished basement, but there are some older homes that do not have a finished, waterproofed basement. A clean, dry basement is every homeowners dream, increases the overall value of a home and provides extra living or storage space.

 

Basements can be used for many things, but first they must be properly waterproofed. Water leakage is one of the most common problems basements have nowadays. However, by following a few simple easy steps or contacting a basement waterproofing specialist, this dilemma can be easily fixed.

 

 

Basement waterproofing is a method used to stop and prevent water from entering into and affecting the basement of your home. For waterproofing to be successful, it must be accompanied by a proper method of drainage and sealers. 

 

These days, basement waterproofing is very common, but also important in areas that are prone to flooding or where there’s a buildup of ground water. This tends to increase the water table, causing hydrostatic pressure to push water into the walls and flooring of your basement. 

 

Basement waterproofing is a method used to protect your home from mold and mildew, but is also used to prevent structural damage.

 

Many homeowners and landlords try to resolve issues with water themselves, and resort to over the counter DIY waterproofing methods such as sealants and paints, but most of these over the counter sealant and paint methods only last a short amount of time, if they work at all. 

 

 

Yes! A leaky pipe or a slow drip will rob your home of a clean, dry basement. It is a good idea to check all areas of your home that deal with water such as your basement, bathroom, kitchen, and laundry room. Even the smallest drip or leak can and will create a concrete-eroding puddle. This can occur in a very short amount of time. 

 

If you discover a drip or leak, be sure to fix it immediately. If you are not very familiar with plumbing, it may be best to contact a professional plumber. It is far less expensive to repair a leaky pipe or a slow dripping spigot than to repair structural damage to your home or foundation—so call the expert before things worsen.

 

 

Yes! When rain falls near your foundation, it can create small to large puddles. These puddles can then seep into your basement in a short amount of time with very little effort. 

 

It is best to install and properly maintain the rain gutters and down spouts on your home. Although rain gutters and down spouts will not instantly solve all your issues, they will help stop the rain fall from directly hitting the walls of your foundation and seeping into your basement.

 

 

A properly waterproofed basement can prevent mold and mildew from growing and from becoming a big problem for your home. A damp, wet basement is actually considered unhealthy. When various forms of mold and mildew enter your basement, they can cause sickness, breathing difficulties, topical skin irritations, and allergies. 

 

The foundation of your home will be structurally sound and secure, and the overall value of your home will increase dramatically, all the while providing additional living space.

Are there any additional items to consider?

 

There are basement waterproofing kits available on the market, but if you are unaware of what the problem is, it is best to consult a professional. An unknown source of water can become very costly. 

 

A good waterproofing expert will examine your basement and recommend the best and most cost efficient way to solve the problem. Some waterproofing contractors give a free estimate, discuss your options, and give plenty of time to make the best decision. 

 

Contact the experts at Matt Clarke’s Northern Basement Systems for a free estimate for basement waterproofing in Vermont.