Basements are one of the most important, yet most neglected, part of a home. It can be a problematic area since it’s susceptible to water leaks and moisture buildup. Because of this, a damp or wet basement can easily become flooded.
In order to prevent these things from happening, basement waterproofing is a must-do. A professional basement waterproofing specialist can address the leak and waterproof the area to ensure it stays dry. While every basement is different and may require a different solution, this article takes a look at some of the most common basement waterproofing methods.
- Exterior Basement Waterproofing – This is an extensive method in which contractors waterproof basements, typically during the construction of the building. Exterior basement waterproofing is designed to prevent water from causing any damages to the structure. In this method, polymers and membranes are used to coat the exterior basement walls. While this method is great for homes under construction it’s generally not recommended for existing homes.
- Interior Sealants – Interior sealants are generally used as a temporary material to keep a basement dry. This tool is used to monitor the atmospheric humidity level to ensure the basement is kept dry. Although it’s not a permanent basement waterproofing solution, sealants can prevent moisture from being absorbed by the structure and can help prevent moisture from traveling to other areas of the home.
- Interior Water Drainage – This method is one of the most effective water proofing solutions. The installation of a drainage system will help avoid water build up. The drainage system moves the water from the footers of the foundation and out below the basement floor.
There are many things to consider when choosing a basement waterproofing method. While cost is a major consideration, it should not be the main deciding factor. You also need to consider the quality and the durability of the waterproofing method. A basement waterproofing company would suggest choosing a permanent solution. In doing this, it may be more expensive up front but will be cost-effective in the long run. Unfortunately, water damage in basements is all too common. As a matter of fact, over 98% of all homes with basements will experience some kind of water damage. If you do experience water damage, it’s important to clean it up and contact a basement waterproofing contractor as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
