Even if your basement has never experienced water buildup, there’s always a chance that it will. This part of the home is prone to chronic dampness and flooding. Water can get in through cracks in your basement windows, foundation, or walls, causing issues such as damaged carpets, musty odors, damaged foundation, and mold.
Are you already a victim? Don’t stress – there are ways to identify water issues in your basement and waterproof the area to prevent them from reoccurring.
Signs of Water Buildup in Your Basement
Here are some telltale signs of a wet and leaky basement:
- Peeling Paint
There can be specific reasons why paint can start peeling off the walls; there are chances that the paint did not suit the wall, or the paint guy didn’t prepare the wall properly before carrying out the job. However, excessive dampness in the same area can also be a contributing factor. But peeling paint isn’t the only concern, spalling (when stone or rocks break into tiny pieces) can occur on the walls when there’s water damage. - Leaking Walls
Basement walls that are bare and unfinished can contribute to condensation and damp spots. Pipes can also leak at the back of the concrete, or water can seep into the walls via soil. Stray water has a way of entering your home with the help of leaky walls and, as such, wears down the flooring, walls, and foundation of your house. - Mold/ Mildew
Excessive moisture in the air is the perfect cause of mold or mildew. There’s no need for standing water to cause any troubles, then. Mold and mildew are enough to make a significant mess. They are also a health hazard if left to grow. - Sinking Floor
This is one of the most recognizable signs of basement water accumulation. If the floor starts to sink, your home could be suffering from soil erosion or foundation damage. Waterproofing the area will allow for damage control while you take steps to reinstate the floor to its default state.
Ways To Waterproof Your Basement
Although floor damage recuperation and foundation repair should be left to specialists, there are various waterproofing techniques you can leverage to stop basement flooding and decrease the hazards that come along with dampness. Utilize these basement waterproofing tips to keep the area dry and comfortable:
- Pick Waterproof Carpeting Materials
Covered surfaces can dampen if your basement has water issues. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to shield them from holes and standing water. If you have uncovered floors, waterproof covering could be a wise pick if your basement has overflowed previously or has mold and mildew issues.
- Apply Waterproof Sealant to Walls and Floor
Cracks can, at times, be seen in concrete or cemented walls, permitting water to leak in from the outside. If you do not know how to seal basement walls, do not worry – the process is as straightforward as fixing the crack with a brickwork waterproofing paint or hydraulic concrete.
First, survey the paint. If it is peeling, look closely to see if there are any cracks underneath that are letting moisture in. Before waterproofing basement walls, clean and prep the surface with a wire brush to eliminate any deposits. Apply a fine layer of waterproof sealant and let it dry totally before re-painting.
- Purchase a Dehumidifier
If your basement waterproofing efforts lead you toward mold and mildew cleanup, that is a foul-smelling job. A dehumidifier unit will be your savior. Dehumidifiers coax dampness out of the air before it can ruin walls, paint, and furniture.
Dehumidifiers come in numerous forms, yet most easily fit into wall outlets and can be emptied routinely when their basins are full. Many can also be fit with pipes to drain consistently into a tub or floor pipe, minimizing the need to discharge them physically.
- Keep Wood Surfaces and Water Separate
Dry rot can be found in damp areas that connect with wooden surfaces and structures – particularly floorboards and support beams.
To keep dry rot from causing damage, removing the source of dampness, i.e., loose pipes connected with the wood, is a wise option. Likewise, consider separating the wood from the soil around the foundation to lessen the danger of dry rot.
- Search for Outdoor Issues
Even though mold, peeling paint, and dry rot may show inside, outside elements are frequent contributors to the issue. As you are waterproofing your basement, make sure to check your drains and gutters for spills, which can cause water to stream toward your home.
- Take Steps for Long-Term Damage Control
The advantages of waterproofing are more than just repairs and damage fixes; waterproofing can provide you with peace of mind. Along with the protective tips given here, there are different steps homeowners can take to be more prepared if there is unexpected water damage. If the water table is a threat to your basement, you may invest in water diversion away from it. Similarly, setting your furniture and belongings where they will be shielded from encroaching water is also a wise step for the long-term.
- Call in the Professionals
If you are having ongoing problems, there could be a variety of factors that are still out of your control. Controlling these basement waterproofing issues takes professional equipment and experience, so it is best to connect with a specialist for service or advice.
The Disaster Company specializes in water damage restoration, and our team members have the proper certifications to take care of any job safely and thoroughly. Our goal is to get your home back to its pre-damage state, which helps to increase its resale value and appeal and allows you to move forward without hassle or worries. Contact our Davis County flood cleanup and restoration specialists today for questions about waterproofing and water damage.
