Waterproofing is an important aspect of home improvement that not many people consider. If you have found a leak or some type of water leakage in your basement, there are many benefits to fixing the problem. Waterproofing basements can help prevent mold from growing, which can also cause health problems. There are so many benefits to waterproof your basement or home attic. It does not matter if you need to do it now or a few years down the road, waterproofing your basement will help save you money and time. Here are the benefits of waterproofing:
Cost Effective – Basement waterproofing can be very cost effective when compared to adding additional materials to your home. By waterproofing your basement, you are cutting down on your remodeling costs. Basement waterproofing can save a homeowner thousands of dollars over the life of the home. Waterproofing will also make a home more energy efficient by keeping heating and cooling bills down.
Protection From Disasters – Mold and mildew can create toxins in the home that can lead to illness. Waterproofing will reduce the amount of chemicals that reach your home from bathrooms and kitchen runoff. This can potentially save you and your family from harmful substances and diseases.
Protection From Fire – If your home suffers any type of fire, waterproofing can help prevent the damage and destruction caused by flames. Many homes that suffer from a fire have water damage on their interior as well as the exterior. Waterproofing prevents the building materials from being damaged by fire, making it more fire resistant. It can also protect your home from leaks and any other issues that can occur with leaking roofs or foundation cracks.
Reduced Odor – Mold and mildew can create an unpleasant smell in a home. Waterproofing can reduce this odor by reducing moisture in the air. If this happens, you will have less time having to deal with an unpleasant odor from poorly maintained areas of the house.
Helps with Hydrostatic Pressure – Any area where a home’s foundation is experiencing pressure can allow water seepage into a home. The most common place to find water seepage is around sinks, faucets, and behind wallpaper. The pressure can create pockets of moisture that lead to leaks. Waterproofing prevents this by allowing any places that might have a chance for water seepage to be kept dry. If water seepage is present, waterproofing will decrease the amount of pressure that is exerted on the foundation. This means less hydrostatic pressure, less damage, and less risk of mold and mildew growing.
Reduced Dampness – Wetness inside a home that remains undetected for long periods of time can result in the formation of mold and mildew. Basement waterproofing prevents this because it stops basement moisture from being allowed to remain stagnant. Waterproofing is effective for any area inside a home. A small leak in the attic or other areas must also be repaired or replaced to prevent possible mold and mildew growth.
All of these benefits can help keep your home in good condition and stop water damage from occurring. Your basement is a major part of your home. It is important to maintain it properly so that you can enjoy comfortable living conditions in your home. To do this, waterproofing must be done to eliminate humidity, which is a major cause of damage to most basements. Basement waterproofing will also allow you to have a dry and well-maintained foundation that will withstand future wear and tear.
There are a number of different types of waterproofing solutions on the market today. Some methods are more effective than others. Many homeowners choose a rubber underlayment when doing minor waterproofing projects inside and outside their homes. This type of product is designed to be placed over a concrete floor and will create a protective layer that stops moisture from leaking out through the bottom of the home. Other homeowners choose to use an adhesive-based waterproofing system that has tiny bubbles that adhere to the interior surface of concrete floors. These products are often applied to both sides of the foundation and will form a protective barrier that locks in moisture.
The process of basement waterproofing does not have to be costly, but it can be. For instance, an average homeowner could spend as much as three thousand dollars on waterproofing projects that would effectively protect the foundation from water damage. If you decide to hire a professional waterproofing contractor to do the job, then the total cost could climb into the thousands of dollars. A homeowner could save money by doing the same project on his own, but he will likely need to purchase an additional pump and drainage system to complete the job.
Regardless, of whether you should consider waterproofing your basement or not, keep in mind that doing so can help reduce your home’s risk for mold and mildew. When you are choosing a solution, also consider whether your house requires a foundation in order to remain stable. Many basements are located below the earth level and require a foundation in order to remain solid. Also, be sure to review your home’s warranty to see if it includes any type of water proofing protection. In the event your home does not include a warranty, then make sure you find one before you proceed with the project.