When planning home improvement, waterproofing isn’t the first thing to come to mind. Basement waterproofing isn’t as exciting as improving the exterior of your house or beautifying interiors. Similar to ignoring waterproofing the basement, the majority of homeowners don’t think about taking flood insurance for their homes. These are some mistakes that lead to serious water damage in the event of clogged gutters, pipe bursts, or drainage issues. Water damage is one of the most common and serious damages that can lead to multiple problems. Your home is vulnerable to water damage due to problems like excessive rain, plumbing leaks, overflows, burst pipes, seepage, and more. The basement is often the first to get affected because as the lowest part of the house, water can seep in through cracks in the foundation. The basement is also vulnerable to water damage due to poor heating or cooling which can cause moisture or condensation buildup.
Not all home improvement projects are about enhancing aesthetics. It’s important to invest money in projects that keep your home safe and prevent damage. Basement flooding or excessive moisture results in multiple issues like structural damage and mold growth. To avoid these problems, you should prioritize waterproofing the basement.
Basement Waterproofing- Meaning & Benefits
Basement waterproofing involves improving drainage systems and applying sealant materials to prevent water from penetrating your basement. Basement waterproofing provides a range of benefits, such as:
1. Protects Foundation
Waterproofing keeps the foundation strong by preventing the risk of water damage. A reliable basement waterproofing contractor will seal cracks in the foundation, install a sump pump, and apply a sealant to reduce the chances of water damage. The contractor will also take care of the drainage system to ensure that groundwater is diverted effectively preventing basement floods. This entire process prevents water damage from rain or leaks, resulting in upholding your property’s structural integrity.
2. Prevents Mold Growth
Basement waterproofing is effective in reducing the risk of mold growth. Mold spores thrive in damp and humid spaces like the basement. Mold not only looks bad but also causes health issues like chronic respiratory infections and inhalation fever. Removing water after leaks or flooding isn’t enough to prevent mold growth. A damp environment and humidity are enough for mold to thrive. As compared to temporary solutions like installing a dehumidifier, waterproofing the basement provides a long-term solution to keep the basement dry and prevent mold infestation.
3. Reduce the Cost of Insurance Claims
Weather can be extremely harsh sometimes. During winters, heavy snowfall could bring floodwaters into your basement. Basement flooding can cause severe structural damage. Cracks in the foundation, rotten wood, and other damage can quickly increase the price of the claims. On average, one-fifth of all insurance claims made by homeowners involve water damage. Waterproofing not only keeps your home safe but also saves the time needed to file a claim that has no guarantee of being honored. Waterproofing will prevent water from entering your basement, eliminating the need for insurance claims.