Waterproofing Your Basement: Why and How
Basement waterproofing includes various materials and methods utilized to halt water from entering a building or a home’s basement. Waterproofing a basement may require the application of different sealant substances, the installation of various drain and sump pumps, and many more. In addition, the methods of applying these materials can differ based on the location of the home in relation to the drainage system within the building. The following are some of the benefits of waterproofing a basement:
Preventing basement mold and mildew. When dampness is allowed to remain in a basement, mildew and mold may form. The presence of mold and mildew may present an embarrassing problem to homeowners. These entities can spread through tiny spaces and can also cause allergic reactions and respiratory sickness to those who breathe them in. Thus, waterproofing a basement will keep it free of these potentially harmful organisms.
Stopping leaks in the basement. Aside from the appearance issue, waterproofing a basement also prevents leaks from occurring. Moisture and water, due to its conductivity, are very elastic so it can easily absorb into any space where it can pass through. Leaks in the basement may result in a damp environment, which can promote the growth of mildew and mold.
Saving energy and money. Waterproofing your basement will not only save you money on utility bills but also help save energy. This is due to the fact that it seals off surfaces that may absorb moisture. Moreover, this action prevents water and moisture from leaking into the adjoining rooms of the house. Thus, by preventing moisture from leaking into the basement, it is able to maintain a constant room temperature inside the building. This can improve energy efficiency of the building since heating and cooling expenses are minimized.
Maintaining home safety. If you live in a basement, then you probably know how susceptible it is to dangers like flooding, mildew, hurricanes and earthquakes. By sealing off your basement, you are also protecting your home from such disasters. You will be assured that no one will get into your basement, thus, eliminating the risk of burglary.
Lessen noise pollution. The sound of water trickling into a basement can be very annoying and can lead to poor ventilation in the area. By waterproofing your basement, you reduce the amount of noise pollution that you will hear. This will give you peace of mind, especially if you have young children living in the house.
Improves fire safety. Another advantage of waterproofing your basement is the fact that it improves fire safety. This is because waterproofing increases resistance to fire. Basements that are prone to fires often have damp and slippery floors; this dampens the burning of materials used for insulation and wood, making it easier for fires to start.
All these benefits translate to the fact that waterproofing your basement will not only benefit your home in terms of value but also improve your quality of life. However, there are different types of waterproofing. Before you waterproof your basement, you should first consult with a professional so you will know which type will work best on your basement walls. There are also basement waterproofing kits you can use to waterproof your basement at home.
A lot of people opt for a rubber waterproofing membrane. This is used to waterproof concrete walls and floors. It is a mixture of ethylene glycol (a type of detergent) and water, which then hardens when it comes into contact with external moisture. Although this kind of waterproofing is cheap and easy to apply, it can damage your basement if not applied properly. If the right mixture is not applied on your basement walls, it can peel off after a while. Also, it can weaken the structure of your walls and floor.
Another type of waterproofing is by using a type of clay waterproofing membrane. This is made of clay that is mixed with a water-resistant resin to form a sheet. It is applied to the exterior of your basement walls. This waterproofing is good but can chip and crack if it is not treated well, and it can also cause some health problems like breathing problems and skin irritations.
You can save money by choosing a DIY basement waterproofing project. However, it is important to note that you will also need the right materials and expertise to make sure that the waterproofing is effective and reliable. If you choose to have a professional waterproofing company perform the job, be sure to check out their reputation and the amount of experience they have in the field. To learn more about waterproofing visit https://www.weathertitewaterproofing.com