Without proper waterproofing, your home can see many issues in the future including structural damage. You may think the solution is a simple coat of product to the interior walls and floors, but the problem may stem from the exterior walls.
Let’s take a look at the process of waterproofing your basement.
The Dos and Don’ts of Waterproofing Your Basement
Do determine where the water is coming from.
Look for streaks along walls to signal where the water is leaking in. Check to see that the landscaping is graded away from the home. Make sure the gutters are not overflowing.
If all that looks good and you still have moisture, it’s time to hire a plumber to inspect the storm system around the home. They can use a camera to determine if there are any blocked or compromised pipes adding to the problem.
Do dig around the exterior basement wall(s).
Hire a professional to dig down all the way to the foundation drains and install a cleanout to inspect the lines. Sometimes a simple blockage will cause the water to build up and seep in. Cleaning and inspecting these drains lines sometimes eliminates the need to do further waterproofing.
At the same time, they can add any necessary water drainage solutions to keep water flowing away from your home.
Do check for cracks.
A professional waterproofing company will check for cracks during the excavation process. Cracks can allow outside water to seep in and cause water damage.
Do apply sealant and a membrane.
If you or the contractor find any cracks during the inspection, the next step is to seal them. A cement-based sealant can be easily applied to concrete and masonry surfaces.
A waterproof membrane can then be added to the foundation wall to further block outside water. This membrane will move and adjust should further cracks appear.
Don’t use tar or plastic.
Both of these items should be avoided for waterproofing. Tar will eventually become brittle and crack, leaving you to start all over again. Similarly, plastic will peel, allowing moisture back in again.
Don’t fix a leak with waterproof paint.
Concrete walls are porous. Waterproof paint only sits on the surface of the concrete and never permeates the pores, therefore never bonding with the wall. As water seeps in, it brings minerals with it that continue to build up behind the waterproof paint.
As it builds up, the paint flakes away, putting you back at square one. Waterproof paint is a temporary fix that generally lasts 6-24 months.
Is Basement Waterproofing Worth It?
Absolutely. Your return on investment will be dependent on the size of your home, the area you live, and the amount of waterproofing. But it’s a valuable home improvement that’s worth the initial investment.
If you plan on selling your home at any point, a leaky or damp basement can cause you some trouble during the selling process. If a home inspector notices it (which they will), they can lower the value of your home and scare away potential buyers.
Even if you plan on staying in your home for years to come, a wet basement can damage valuable property, and insurance may not cover it.
How Long does Basement Waterproofing Last
The length of time waterproofing lasts depends on a few different factors including the amount of waterproofing product used, climate, and the severity of the initial damage. With all the different constituents, there’s no set date, but most professionals will warranty it for about ten years.
Call Killeen to Protect Your Home from Water Damage
Waterproofing your home or office can better protect against water damage from flooding, rain, and more. Killeen Plumbing can help you figure out what areas of your home are most vulnerable to damage.
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