Waterproofing your home will cost a bit of money, but it’s far cheaper than the damage from unchecked basement moisture. Plus, it can save you the cost of relocating during serious repair and mold remediation.
Reduced Chances of Flooding
Waterproofing contractors can create a drainage system that transfers water away from the basement to prevent flooding. This typically involves putting in weeping tile, baseboard channels or a French drain around the exterior of the basement walls. This method is one of the most effective waterproofing methods, preventing damage from excess rainwater and other sources of flooding. Compared to interior sump pumps, it is also a permanent solution that only stops the problem once it’s already begun.
If you live in an area with a lot of rain, a waterproof basement will reduce the chance of heavy flooding that can leave your home with extensive water damage and mold. Not just the walls can sustain damage; carpeting and furniture are also susceptible to deterioration, which would reduce their usefulness.
Besides the damage, floodwaters can cause structural issues to the foundation of your house, leaving you with a costly repair bill. Maintaining your basement dry is crucial because it could become a usable area for a second bedroom, an office, or a gym.
Your home’s worth may increase if the basement is clean and dry, especially if you intend to sell it later. Potential buyers will want to avoid purchasing a home with a musty odor, mildew, or other signs of water damage.
Lower Energy Bills
Understanding the purpose of waterproofing and how it benefits your home is essential before you ask yourself how to get one and where to find basement waterproofing near me. Basement waterproofing can transform your basement from a musty storage area to a clean, usable space. Many homeowners use this area for laundry, extra storage or even a home gym. The best part about a finished basement is that it adds more living space to your home, which can increase its value. Waterproofing also protects the foundation of your house, preventing the damage that often comes with flooding or excess rainwater seepage.
Excess moisture in a basement creates mold spores that can spread to other parts of your home. This can lead to many problems, including respiratory and other health conditions. A waterproof basement eliminates mold growth, saving you money on remediation and medical bills.
A dry basement can lower your energy costs as well. Humid indoor air makes HVAC units work harder to cool and heat your home, increasing energy bills. Waterproofing your basement will remove the humidity from the indoor air, lowering your heating and cooling bills.
Water damage can also require you to relocate during repairs. This can cost you time and money for a temporary hotel stay. Waterproofing your basement can save you the cost of relocating as well as the expense of repairing or replacing your belongings.
Prevents Mold and Pests
Moisture in the basement creates a great environment for mold and mildew to grow. When they do, they release spores that spread throughout the house. The spores can cause many health problems, such as itchy eyes and lung irritation. Waterproofing the basement prevents mold and mildew, saving you money in the long run by avoiding the need for expensive drywall and insulation replacement.
Cracks in the foundation are a common way for water to seep into the basement. However, egress windows and window wells that aren’t properly drained can also lead to leaks. Waterproofing the basement ensures that any water that reaches the foundation will be directed away from the house so it doesn’t seep into the basement and cause damage.
Waterproofing the basement also prevents moisture from collecting, which can erode the concrete walls and floor. It can also cause rotting wood and other structural issues. A professional basement waterproofing company will install a drain system along the basement walls, a sump pit to collect water, and plastic panels over the drain so that only a narrow grate is visible in the wall.
In addition to preventing moisture, waterproofing the basement can prevent rodents and other pests from entering the home. The waterproofing process can seal small gaps and holes, allowing rodents to enter. Additionally, crawl space encapsulation can help prevent problems by closing vents, doors, and windows.
Increases Home Value
Few home improvements increase the value of a property as much as basement waterproofing. A cute curb appeal or a new kitchen will only please some buyers, but a well-waterproof basement will have universal appeal. Homeowners may need to realize that a damp basement is a big turnoff to potential homebuyers. If potential buyers smell a musty odor or see evidence of water damage during an open house, they will likely walk away. Waterproofing is an inexpensive way to reassure these buyers and ensure that their purchasing property will be a good investment.
Waterproofing can be done in several ways, and the method chosen will directly affect the cost. For instance, an exterior membrane that keeps water out will be more expensive than a basic sealant. The products used will also have a significant impact on the cost of the project. For example, premium products require more expertise to apply than standard materials, increasing the cost. In addition, a well-waterproofed basement will also improve a home’s energy efficiency. It will prevent mold and cracks from letting outside heat or cold seep into the house, reducing the work required to keep the temperature inside comfortable. This will cut back on power consumption, which many modern homebuyers appreciate.
