5 Things You Need to Know About Basement Waterproofing

In the average home, over 90 percent of water damage is preventable. Because a basement is the lowest area of your home this makes it more susceptible to leaks and flooding.

Many of us may turn a basement into an extra room or simply just use it for storage space. Regardless of what it’s used for most basements will experience some form of water presence at one time or another.

Protecting your basement against leaks and flooding can help avoid serious issues down the road. Keep reading for five things to know about basement waterproofing and the different options for keeping your home dry.

1. Identifying Leak Sources

Locating the cause of a leak can be trickier in a finished basement due to less transparency. Besides the obvious sign of water puddles, indicators like cracked walls or mold & mildew can help identify where leaks may be coming from the naked eye can’t see.

Other sources could be from windows or plumbing & sewage issues elsewhere in your house. If you notice moisture or condensation this is less cause for concern compared to a leak as you can alleviate this from maintaining proper airflow and temperature.

2. Exploring Your Options

Depending on what’s causing a leak there are different methods to fix it. This includes temporary remedies such as basement waterproofing materials like sealant from a local hardware store. While effective, filling a basement’s cracks may only put a band-aid on the problem.

Long-term solutions like installing a drainage system or sump pump allows excess water to properly irrigate outside of your basement. Having a place for water to escape helps with sanitation in preventing mold and allowing cleaner airflow.

3. Average Costs

As you assess how to waterproof a basement you’ll naturally want to factor in the costs just like any other home improvement project. This is dependent on the cause of your leak, amount of damage, and your basement’s square footage. Overall, this can range from a couple of hundred to thousands of dollars.

Keep in mind neglecting to repair major water leaks in your basement can end up costing you much more money in the long run. Basement waterproofing is an investment in preserving your home’s integrity. Depending on the circumstances it may be covered by homeowner’s insurance.

4. Impact of Water Damage

Small puddles here or there in your basement are much less alarming than a massive pool from flooding. Nevertheless, any signs of water presence shouldn’t be taken lightly. Even if you rarely use your basement this still impacts the rest of your home.

Continual mold buildup can spread to other areas of your home and even compromise your health and safety. Failing to waterproof a basement can lead to structural issues such as damaged walls or floorboards.

5. Preventative Measures

Waterproofing a basement can be a long and costly endeavor, but fortunately, there are proactive methods to help prevent leaks and avoid irreparable damage. Equipping your home with gutter extensions is ideal for climates with frequent, heavy rainstorms.

Inspect your yard’s landscaping to determine if there are ways to improve its ability to absorb water before it seeps into your basement. Mulch helps keep soil intact while most plants or grass roots will redirect water away from your basement.

Taking The Right Steps For Basement Waterproofing

If you find water presence in your basement start by removing any important or valuable items and monitor the situation. You may notice the leak is triggered by rainstorms or other areas of your house, such as faulty pipes.

You don’t have to be neck-deep in water until determining you need basement waterproofing. Even a few drops of water can be a telling sign you need to inspect further. Contact Sedona Waterproofing Solutions for a free estimate to learn more about how we can help.