How Waterproofing Home Basement Walls is Accomplished
Waterproofing basement walls is one of the best ways to prevent water damage and resulting issues. If you have detected signs of this problem or hope to avoid them altogether, you may want to employ this strategy as soon as possible. Consider the following guidelines for waterproofing basement walls before it’s too late.
Why Basement Walls Should Be Waterproofed
Waterproofing areas like the basement may help protect your investment. Since a basement can serve as the foundation for your home, keeping it free from flooding and other kinds of damage is essential. Without adequate protection, a variety of costly and avoidable problems might otherwise manifest in your basement.
Because the basement is generally located close to the water table that is below the ground surface, it is particularly vulnerable to moisture, seepage, and even flooding. Since most basic home insurance policies do not cover flooding, this potential issue could cost you with a sizable repair bill.
Another benefit to having your basement waterproofed is to increase its selling value. A musty basement that has not been safeguarded could deter buyers from considering your property. On the other hand, waterproofed basement walls might be the additional detail that compels a buyer to make the purchase.
Providing a seal against moisture invasion can also increase your basement’s value to your own household. If your basement is damp and has resultant issues, it won’t likely be an appealing environment. However, a dry, clean basement might exist in an array of capacities in your home. You may want to make use of the area as an entertainment space, for storage, to temporarily house guests, or as living quarters for family or renters.
Problems from Water Damage
If you haven’t experienced water damage in your home, you may be surprised by the array of issues it can cause. Not only can such problems be inconvenient and unsightly, but they might also lead to serious health and safety concerns. Rotting structures can become safety hazards, and countless people have become sick due to mold.
Some signs of water damage may be obvious, such as puddles on the floor, damp carpet, and wet drywall. Other effects may not seem so clearly related to seepage and flooding at first glance.
The following are some of the potential effects of water and moisture making their way past unprotected basement walls:
- humidity in the air
- musty smells
- mold or mildew
- discolored drywall
- drywall that is soft to the touch
- peeling paint on walls
- cracked walls
- efflorescence (white, powdery mineral deposits) on concrete walls
- rotted wood around windows
- water tracks on walls or flooring
DIY or Hire a Pro?
In some cases, you might be able to waterproof your basement walls yourself. However, by the time you notice the signs of damage, hiring a professional is probably the best strategy for your property. If you are remodeling or a builder, using a pro for building construction could make all the difference in the long run.
To ensure that the sealing process is implemented correctly, a variety of steps must be taken. Often, waterproofing is utilized to reverse problems caused by moisture or water. In these cases, the entire area should be assessed to identify the scope of the damage. Walls need to be inspected, and mold remediation may be needed. Any standing water should first be removed from the basement. Cracks should be caulked and sealed, and waterproof paint might also be applied. Most importantly, choosing the right waterproofing products and techniques is critical. This is why professional guidance and application are recommended for basement and building waterproofing, in general.
Renaissance: The Stone Care and Waterproofing Experts
Whether you are a homeowner who has detected warning signs or a contractor planning new construction, you need professionals with solid waterproofing experience. The pros at Renaissance Stone Care and Waterproofing are highly qualified at waterproofing projects, from basement waterproofing to patio waterproofing to below grade waterproofing and so much more! We are owned locally and are fully licensed.
Feel free to call us at 408-998-4700 or schedule a visit at: schedule@rscwp.com, or send us a message today.