There are few things more critical for a homeowner than a wet basement. What seems to be a small drop or wet patch are the major threatening signs of a much larger issue. It must, the moisture in your basement can lead to many time-consuming and expensive repairs and also diminishes the integrity of your home’s foundation.
From structural damage to toxic mold, water in your basement is a very serious problem and has very bad consequences. If you’re trying to figure out how to heal a damp or moldy basement, you’re probably curious about product ads that claim basement walls are waterproof.
You have to ask yourself if it is possible to dry out a basement just by sealing the walls. Of course, basement waterproofing is possible, but to make sure you choose the right options, a reliable waterproofing company also knows the benefits you will get from waterproofing your basement. Unfortunately, this article has all the information you need.
What Originates Basement Moisture
To better comprehend how to keep your basements dry, you need to have a detailed knowledge of what roots basement moisture in the first place. Unfortunately, water can seep into our homes. Here are some of the main causes of basement humidity:
Cracks/Splits In The Basement
Cracks in your home’s foundation are a safe way for water to seep through basement walls and floors.
Inadequate Soils And Drainage Systems
If rainwater is not draining correctly, it can leak into your basement. Inadequate flooring and poor drainage systems, clogged or improperly installed gutters, or uneven slopes around your home are one of the most common causes of basement moisture.
Poor Drainage
When rainwater isn’t directed properly outside your home, it settles on the foundation of the home and seeps into the basement.
Pressure Due To Water Accumulation
Hydrostatic pressure occurs when water collects around the base. As gravity pushes this water, it will try to escape, to relieve that pressure.
Improperly Installed Gutters Installed
Gutters are designed to sidetrack rainwater from your basement. If these gutters are inappropriately installed or blocked and not working, water will flow around the base and start producing moisture.
Inadequate Sealing
Dangerous and properly sealed basement doors, windows, and vents are the main reasons for water infiltration.
Condensation
Condensation is the progression by which water vapor turns into liquid. It is the opposite of evaporation, where liquid water turns into vapor. When condensation happens, it can originate mold which is a major concern.
Basement Waterproofing Processes
Interior Waterproofing
Interior waterproofing can include sealants and coatings, as well as techniques to prevent condensation. Interior waterproofing has three more types;
- Concrete waterproofing coating.
- Waterproofing of plastic sheets and panels.
- Waterproofing paint with acrylic formula.
- Silicate-based concrete sealants.
Exterior Waterproofing
This technique takes place outside of your home. The persistence of these methods is to stop water from getting inside in basement.
Improving Drainage System
This process may include upgrading a faulty drainage system or adding a drainage system if there is none.
Benefits Of Waterproofing Your Basement:
Basement Flood Deterrence
Waterproofing precautions such as repairing cracks, installing a sump pump, and installing drain pipes to divert groundwater are very functional in averting basement flooding. To change the direction of groundwater, simple waterproofing methods such as sealing cracks in the foundation, a proper drainage system, and installing a sump pump are helpful.
Provide A Healthy Atmosphere In Home
When you think about the health of your home, how often do you think about water damage? Water damage is the most common damage that can occur in a home. Rain, moisture, leaky pipes, condensation, or any other moisture can seep through the cracks without sealing. Mold can grow quickly in damp areas, so keep your home dry.
Too much water or high moisture levels in the basement of the home cause lethal mold or mildew to grow. Mold grows in as little as forty hours and has negative effects on the health of your physical body. If you notice a fusty and moldy smell in your house, it may mean there is mold. Basement waterproofing can help with asthma problems and reduce headaches.
Protect Your Home From Costly Structural Damage
Basements that are not properly waterproofed are vulnerable to substantial structural damage. Water seeping through the basement to the foundation can weaken the edges and joints where floors and walls meet. This damage will result in bent or curved walls and cracks in the foundation and floors.
These problems start small and are difficult to detect until they become a costly repair problem. By waterproof your basement, you can evade a range of hitches that cause serious damage, unhygienic living conditions, and expensive repairs.
No More Insurance Claims
Water damage accounts for more home insurance claims. Spending a few dollars on waterproofing your basement will help prevent flooding, which can save you lots of costs on connected home insurance claims.
