Basement Waterproofing Can Benefit Your Foundation

If you are a homeowner, you should consider basement waterproofing for your home. It costs much less than you might imagine and will save you money in the long run on the maintenance involving mold, leaks, and structural damage. It also raises home values, so it is a very important investment in your home.

What is Basement Waterproofing?

Basement waterproofing is a method of preventing structures that are built at or below ground level from absorbing and collecting water. It involves sealing the walls and floors to prevent water from getting into the structure and providing adequate drainage inside and outside the structure to keep water from causing damage in a variety of different ways. This twofold process makes your basement work extremely efficiently by making it nearly impossible for water to get in, but say a leak sprang up somewhere else in the home, that water will have a proper way to exit the basement without causing damage.

Why do I need basement waterproofing?

Non-waterproofed basements suffer from mold, standing water, mustiness, and structural damage that will eventually weaken the entire home. Most importantly, waterproofing plays an important role in protecting the foundation of your home. Water often builds up in the ground outside the home. This is called hydrostatic pressure, and it basically means that there is a force pressing in on your foundation; a force that it wasn’t designed to accommodate unless it has been waterproofed. Hydrostatic pressure can do significant damage to the foundation, walls, and overall structure of your home without you even being aware that it exists.

Hydrostatic pressure and other kinds of water damage can cause wall bowing and/or collapsing in block wall foundations. In poured wall foundations and solid precast foundations, it can cause cracks, deterioration, and movement in the foundation and overall structure of the home. The resulting damage will lead to unsightly and hazardous conditions in your home, huge repair bills, and a reduction of value in your home.

It is best to prevent foundation problems before they occur by waterproofing your basement as soon as possible. You may be able to determine if you already have water damage or a hydrostatic pressure problem in your basement by checking for:

• Mold
• moisture collecting on the walls and floor
• peeling paint
• water coming up through the slab
• water seeping from the area where the slab and the wall meet
• water coming through foundation cracks

Even if these conditions exist, it is not too late to have your basement waterproofed.

So, I’m ready to Have My Basement Waterproofed, There are some helpful points to remember when deciding to have your basement waterproofed.

#1. It is best to have the entire job done at one time. Some people waterproof only one wall because they believe that to be the only problem area, but this provides only partial protection and benefits.

#2. Do not let anyone tell you that black tar or waterproof paint is all you need for waterproofing. This provides little to no protection against water damage, particularly to the foundation.

#3. If you already see evidence of water damage, look for a basement waterproofing contractor who also specializes in structural and foundation repair.

Basement waterproofing can benefit your foundation and, in the process, benefit your entire home.

Call Ameri-Dry® Waterproofing for your FREE analysis and estimate at 1-800-580-1964 and take advantage of the “Dry Now, Pay Later” Plan. It’s time you enjoyed a dry, comfortable Ameri-Dry® Basement! MHIC # 128490