If you’re here, you already know that the best way to deal with a wet basement is waterproofing, which includes water drainage and a sump pump. You’ve most likely done your homework and learned about different waterproofing techniques and materials and why they’re important. However, we bet you are not naive and are aware that there is no ideal answer, so you simply want to be ready!
Now if you mentioned basement waterproofing, you would be correct. However, during the waterproofing process, there are four frequent problems. We’ll discuss their importance, the additional expenses they require, and how to prepare for them.
Mechanical Interface
For many essential components, the basement is where dwellings are built by default. These consist of the water heater, fuse box, HVAC system, and shut-off valves for the water supply. Depending on where your residence is, you could also have a radon detection system in this region.
Before we can install your water drainage, it might be necessary to unhook and move any things that are on the floor or against a wall. If you are unable to make these preparations on your own, you might need to speak with a plumber or general contractor. Before arranging installation, homeowners may often ignore this additional cost and difficulty, so don’t make the same mistake!
Occasionally, the mechanicals can be briefly reconnected until the installation is complete. The best course of action is to relocate them a little bit farther away from the wall, rejoin them, and leave them there permanently. If so, moving the utilities won’t be necessary a second time, and the contractor won’t need to come back.
Footer Damage
The footer under the foundation of contemporary homes is something we include in our waterproofing process. Construction workers are now able to use an adequate drainage system, which sits immediately on top of the footer. Fast-track drainage is required for older properties.
An issue with your home’s foundation may occasionally be found when a contractor drills through the basement floor. It might not be there, it might not be wide enough, or the floor might have been poured on top of the footer too thinly. Any of these circumstances don’t allow for the use of a drainage system. This indicates that you may first need foundation repairs.
Unexpected Floor Cracks in the Basement
You typically have two options if water is leaking into your home through floor gaps. They may need to be opened and replaced with a new drainage channel, or they can be sealed.
An epoxy crack fill should be enough if the crack is tiny and only allows a small quantity of water seepage or only allows water to enter during a strong downpour. During your initial estimate visit, one of our professional contractors can typically figure that out.
Finishing The Basement
You might want to think about how to include your drainage system if you intend to “finish” your basement with drywall and flooring. You must take this into account while making your plans. Nobody likes wet drywall, carpet, or insulation!
The best course of action is to enclose the basement walls. Your basement room(s) will be framed when you add a wooden framework and insulation. You must keep water away from these components. The humidity, which adds to the moisture that might accumulate in a basement, can be reduced with the use of encapsulation.
Additional Resources
We recommend reading through our comprehensive guide on basement waterproofing if you have any further queries. This addresses all relevant subjects as well as the queries that homeowners have most frequently.
Avoiding Waterproofing Problems For Your Home
As was already discussed, some issues that arise when hiring a contractor to waterproof your basement are unavoidable. Finding a contractor will be necessary now that you know what to look for and how to prepare for any issues (so take a look at our website for more information about our professional basement waterproofing services!)
Guidelines for Preventing Interior House Moisture Infiltration
If not prevented in advance, moisture entry in the interiors might utterly damage your furniture. Materials used to make furniture have the ability to collect water if they are subjected to high humidity levels. Although it may occur worldwide, this is a condition that frequently occurs in wet and humid climates.
The following advice can help you keep moisture from entering your home:
Reduce The Humidity Within The Home
Maintaining low levels of humidity within your home is another method for preventing moisture ingress. Dehumidifiers or ventilation systems can do this (which works best if you have a basement).
In order to ensure that your home receives more air movement than the outdoors during the hot summer months, you might want to run a few ceiling fans. Any extra moisture will evaporate into the atmosphere outdoors as a result, rather than becoming trapped within the house.
Have Vapor Barriers Professionally Installed
Installing vapor barriers in your walls and ceilings is the best way to stop moisture from entering your house. A layer of material called a vapor barrier keeps moisture out of your house. They are affordable and will prevent water vapor from penetrating your home’s external walls through cracks and other gaps.
Do A Leak Check Around Windows And Doors
Although they are sometimes ignored, doors and windows are two of the most noticeable areas where excess moisture enters your house. They allow for air leakage around window and door frames if they are not correctly sealed, which results in moisture in the interior area. This can cause condensation on glass surfaces, which would encourage the growth of mold and perhaps cause respiratory problems. Keep in mind that when you address minor issues quickly, they remain minor!
Final Thoughts
Moisture may have a negative impact on your health, your property, and your convenience by causing structural damage, electrical fires, and other dangerous possibilities. Be proactive and stop moisture from entering the interior of your home right away. Give us a call today at (865) 299-2315.
