Basement waterproofing is a complicated and costly technique. Here's everything you need to know about why water is leaking into your basement and how to fix it.
You probably shiver at the thought of water trickling beneath your house, unless it's part of a plan to create a swimming pool in the basement. There are, however, several steps you can take to protect your property from water, ranging from low-cost precautions to high-cost professional solutions. Here's everything you need to know about choosing the best basement waterproofing solution.
The Problems Caused by a Wet Basement
Because untreated concrete walls and floors absorb water from the outside soil and transmit it to the basement's interior, basements are known for feeling wet. Installing fans that vent to the home's exterior and solely employing moisture-resistant flooring can be used to remedy mild dampness in a basement. Waterproofing solutions can remove these issues.
Development of Mold and Mildew
Although basements are inherently musty, a strong odor of mold should alert the homeowner to the fact that something is wrong. Mold and mildew thrive in moist environments, such as basements. Mildew shows as a white residue, whereas mold is typically black, green, or dark brown.
Although most mold found in basements isn't “black mold” or “dangerous mold,” it should be treated as if it were. Mold development can cause health problems, so it's important to get rid of it altogether. If left untreated, mold will release airborne spores that can spread throughout the house via the central heating and air system.
Damage to Stored Items
Basements, like attics, are popular places to store items that the family isn't using right now—items that are either precious or at the very least too good to throw away. Assume that these goods are placed on the basement floor. Even a little amount of puddling water can permanently harm wood furniture legs or be absorbed by entire cardboard boxes of storing clothing, linens, and other belongings, resulting in permanently ruined products.
Even if furniture or books are housed on shelves, pallets, benches, or tables off the basement floor, the high humidity that comes with a wet basement can cause the materials to become moist, which can ruin them.
The Cost of Fixing a Wet Basement
Basement repair is usually costly, and depending on the source of the leak, it can be extremely costly. A larger repair effort may be required if a DIY fix isn't sufficient, but in most cases, the cost of basement repairs is an investment in the home's worth. The cost of the repairs will vary depending on the extent of the work and the current labor rate.
Basement Waterproofing Portland Methods
The best way to fix a leaky basement depends on the source of the water, the intended use of the basement space, and the homeowner's financial situation. Some repairs are more affordable than others, and others are impossible due to the home's original construction. Before making any major changes to your basement, have it inspected by a foundation contractor or a structural engineer. If your basement floods, the first thing you should do is dry it out before making repairs. For more information and get free estimates with Portland Basement Waterproofing Company.
