Humidity and the accumulation of water in your basement can wreak serious havoc on your house. Not only will your basement become moldy and smelly, but the integrity of your home’s structure can be compromised. That’s why it’s necessary to take action and waterproof your basement as a precaution.
Water in the basement can lead to a myriad of problems if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are several effective ways to waterproof your basement and safeguard your home against potential damage. From installing a sump pump to sealing cracks and applying waterproof coatings, proactive measures can significantly mitigate the risks associated with basement water intrusion.
1. Install Basement Windows
A window that allows moisture to pass through its frame can be sneaky. If you don’t check existing windows in your basement for leaks, you may have a false sense of protection from rainy or snowy weather. Opting for a basement window will eliminate your concerns about moisture coming in from outdoors.
Once you install a basement window in the place of an older window, you won’t need to worry about repair and maintenance. You can choose a basement window that allows for extra sunlight to enter the area. Furthermore, you can choose a basement window that can serve as a convenient emergency exit.
2. Use a Basement Dehumidifier
After ensuring moisture doesn’t enter your basement by installing a new basement window, you can focus on removing any humidity that’s indoors. Humidity can cause the same types of problems as a flooded basement, given enough time. A basement dehumidifier will be key in removing the excess moisture in the air.
By keeping the humidity in your basement in check, you’ll be inhibiting mold growth. This provides a more comfortable environment for people with breathing problems due to asthma or allergies. A high-quality basement dehumidifier is an ally in creating a comfortable home as it filters pollutants and allergens.
Contrary to portable room dehumidifiers, a basement dehumidifier has automatic water drainage.
3. Install Perimeter Drainage System
Apart from windows, water can enter your basement from cracks in the foundation. Installing a perimeter drain works much like a roof drainage system. The water that accumulates around the base of your house is removed without having to excavate and do other costly interventions.
4. Buy a Basement Sump Pump
A sump pump is placed in a spot where water will accumulate in your basement. It automatically starts to pump water once a certain level of flooding occurs. Therefore, you don’t need to go down to the basement and turn it on.
A sump pump is a convenient solution if water starts to flood your basement when you are away. The pump will become active and pump the water to the exterior of your home.
5. Apply Sealants
The action that will make all other waterproofing efforts more efficient is waterproofing your foundation. By closing up any cracks with sealants, you’ll be minimizing the possibility of moisture entering your basement. Additionally, pump and dehumidifier energy consumption will be less.
Protect Your Basement
While you can go the do-it-yourself route, protecting your basement from water damage can be a hassle. Finding a reliable expert can give you peace of mind while keeping your indoor air quality high and safeguarding the foundation. 58 Foundations is a trusted authority for anyone looking to waterproof a basement.