Basements are great places for storage, extra living spaces, and even home offices. But it can become a huge issue when your basement starts to take on water. If you've noticed that your basement is wet or damp—even if it's just in one area—it may be time to consider waterproofing it. Read on to learn more about the signs that you need basement waterproofing and what to do when you find them.
Signs That Your Basement Needs Waterproofing
The most obvious sign that your basement needs waterproofing is water pooling on the floor or along the walls. However, there are other signs you should watch out for too. These include musty smells, cracks in the walls and floors, warped wood, stains, and damp spots.
What to Do About These Signs
Once you've identified these signs, it's important to act quickly before further damage occurs. There are several ways you can go about waterproofing a basement, depending on the severity of the problem and how much money you have available for repairs.
One option is installing an interior drainage system with sump pumps (which will pump out any collected water). The sump pump collects water from the lowest points in your basement and pumps it out to a dry well or another area away from your house.
Another option is applying sealant products like a concrete sealer or epoxy paint to protect against moisture buildup inside your basement walls and floors. Concrete sealers and epoxy paint provide a waterproof barrier to protect your basement from future water damage. These sealants can also be paired with a dehumidifier to help keep the area dry.
Other options include exterior drain tiling around the perimeter of your house or installing exterior drainage systems such as French drains around the foundation of your home as well as grading away from the house so that rainwater runs away from its foundation instead of pooling near it. This process can be pretty labor-intensive, but it's worth the investment to keep your basement dry for a long time.
Hiring a professional contractor who specializes in interior and exterior waterproofing solutions might be necessary depending on how severe the damage is and how well you understand the waterproofing process. With their help, you can make sure that your basement stays dry with a professional solution that fits your timeline.
Contact a basement waterproofing service in your area to learn more.
