Most homeowners waterproof their basements or crawlspaces as responses to signs of leaks, excess water, mold, or a musty smell. When problems present themselves, the damage is more extensive than realized. This leads to repair costs, higher costs to waterproof the area, and possible health concerns. The cleanup process is complicated, and items stored in the basement will be ruined.
Selecting the Right Waterproofing System
There are a few methods to waterproof a basement or crawlspace. Vapor barriers are ideal for crawlspaces, while sub-floor drainage and sump pumps work well for basements. Exterior waterproofing is also considered when foundation damage is extensive.
An innovative system to waterproof a basement consists of a mechanism to capture water and direct it to the sump pump. A no-clog guarantee accompanies the installation. Using the Hydraway 2000 of 3000 for waterproofing your basement removes water seventy percent faster than standard methods.
Noticeable Signs of Moisture
Sign of moisture in the basement can include water stains on the walls, floor, or ceiling. Puddling will come and go as temperatures change in the space, but the stains remain. Efflorescence is a visible sign as well. This process leaves white or greyish ash on basement walls. In some light, the walls may also appear shimmery.
Doors or windows sticking or becoming hard to open and close may indicate excess moisture. Wood expands as it gets damp even though the change is not visible to the naked eye. Sagging floors, detached baseboards, and wood rot are also caused by water leaks. Condensation on the walls or around pipes also means the basement or crawlspace has too much moisture.
Avoiding Health Issues
One of the best reasons to have the basement waterproofed before an issue arises is to protect the health of the family. Mold, mildew, bacteria, and insects drawn to standing water will make family members sick quickly. Mold spreads within forty-eight hours of coming in contact with a water source. This will instantly exacerbate allergies, asthma, or other respiratory conditions.
The development of respiratory issues can be the result of mold and bacteria. Other conditions caused by dangerous mold and bacteria include dizziness, headaches, and nausea. Long-term health risks, such as pulmonary infections and chronic fatigue can be caused by insects drawn to standing water like mosquitoes.
Save Money
In addition to avoiding the repair bills to fix the damage, higher costs for waterproofing services, and cleanup costs, proactively waterproofing the basement will save money in other ways. This process is a vital way to protect the investment in the house. Repairs to cracks or leaks in the foundation, bracing the basement walls due to structural weakness and replacing egress windows due to wood rot decrease the value of the house. Waterproofing before any damage will increase the value of the house.
Lower energy bills will also save homeowners money. Drafts and dampness make a heating system work harder than normal. The demand for a comfortable temperature will cost more money. An overworked system will be more expensive in terms of repairs, maintenance, and premature replacements.
When searching for a company to waterproof the basement or crawlspace, seek one that provides financing options. The initial cost of waterproofing may not easily fit into an average budget. The cost will be offset by the savings. It is essential to remember that waterproofing the basement before moisture creeps into the area will always be cheaper than waiting for a problem.