Every year, only 28% of houses being constructed are subjected to waterproofing. Homeowners and building managers would find themselves calculating possible expenses of having their property waterproofed. There are numerous reasons why you should spend on a good waterproofing system.
• Protecting your investment
Your home is not only where your heart is, it is your investment. Protecting your investment means you have to guard it against destruction. Waterproofing would also increase the value of your home and property if you are planning to sell.
It is very unlikely for home buyers to have an interest on a basement with molds and mildew on the floors and water stains on the floor. And if you are planning to sell your house, realtors would still suggest that you fix the leaking before they put the property on sale. It is just a sad feeling that you will be fixing your basement for somebody else.
• A safer foundation
Exposure to weather conditions like heavy rain and sunlight could cause structural problems. If you have a wooded deck and it is not properly waterproofed, you would notice discoloration, water stain, rotting and fungi growth. Walls not properly waterproofed will give in hydrostatic pressure creating cracks and leaks on walls and floors.
• Increased residential space
About 30 to 50% of your home’s area is the basement. By making sure your basement is properly waterproofed, you could maximize the space for storing important materials and furniture without getting worried of the items getting wet. Converting an existing space is definitely more affordable that adding another room to your home.
• Healthier environment
Humidity and moisture is what molds and mildew want. Mold and mildew could cause respiratory problems like asthma and also trigger allergic reactions. There is no way to remove these fungi’s spores inside the house, the only thing that could remove such growth would be to control moisture.
Molds do not only grow on walls or areas where there are moisture issues. It could grow on anything like wood, carpet and even food. By reducing humidity, preventing condensation and water seepage, mold and mildew growth could be decreased.
• Eliminate insect growth
There are various kinds of insects, water bugs, cockroaches, beetles, and critters that find heaven in damp areas. Wet basements are ideal for wood boring insects like termites to reproduce. These insects could cause damage not only to the foundation but also to important things stored in the room.
• Peace of mind
You will feel more at ease about leaving your home for a few days of vacation. You do not have to worry about returning to a flooded basement. Sacrifice a good night sleep because of fear of an the arriving heavy rains.
Waterproofing may be expensive, especially if you are looking at years of structural deterioration. But quality and safety should never be sacrificed because of cost. Homeowners would eventually find out that quality waterproofing could save them money in the long run and at the same time enjoy their homes to the fullest.
Basement waterproofing prevents water from penetrating into basements of a residence or a commercial building. Waterproofing is important, especially for below ground structures. Without waterproofing these sections, the foundations of the structure could get damaged and at the same time produce problems like molds and mildew which could affect people using the area.
Basement waterproofing includes sealing leaks, cracks and repairing possible areas of water entry. Even though the basement is constructed properly, surfaces could still be damaged because of humidity and moisture. In areas where the water table could rise, water could seep through the cracks of the wall.
There are different waterproofing methods that can be used for the basement.
• For areas with high humidity and moisture, using interior sealers could help in preventing absorption of moisture on concrete surfaces. Concrete walls, when subjected to moisture could deteriorate. This condition is called spalling.
• Interior water drainage creates a system that would drain underground water on the foundation footers. Pipes would collect the water. These PVC pipes are referred to as “French drain.” The water would be directed to a sump pump system. The pump would dispose or remove the water from the basement. However, there are cases when the sump-pump system fails especially if it is exposed to humidity and falls victim to molds.
• Exterior waterproofing prevents the water from getting into the basement. Before, exterior waterproofing is actually damp-proofing. Asphalt-based materials are used to waterproof the materials. Currently, polymer-based products last longer compared with the asphalt products. With polymer-based products, the effects could last for a longer period of time since it is not easily affected by the pH of the soil.
• There are also products which could be applied like rubberized membranes. These membranes could be applied to the wall and floor using a roller or a sprayer. Since you will be applying this material, it is important to monitor the consistency of the liquid to avoid problems. There are also waterproof paints, however, these products may not last for a long time.
Before you choose or buy any kinds of basement waterproofing, make sure to identify the main source of problem first. There are different companies selling waterproofing sealers, paints and other do-it-yourself waterproofing products. Before making purchase, you could do some research on the products first. The same goes if you are also looking for a contractor to do waterproofing for you.
When doing some research, the best source of information would be the company’s website and customer feedbacks. This would help you get an idea how the product works. Customer testimonials would not only provide you information how the products work but also how the companies provide customer service.
When getting a contractor, make sure not to base on the cost of the services alone. They may cost low, but the service may not be of quality. Check the contractor’s references and former clients. Also, make sure to get a contract which is signed by the contractor and you. This should include the cost, services and also the the date of completion.
Basement waterproofing is important to keep your foundation structure intact and a way to take care of your real estate property. Find the best option for you and your family.
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