Although many homeowners assume they are protected against flooding or water buildup in their basement, most are not. And the truth is that a basement unprotected from potential water damage could cost a homeowner thousands of dollars in repairs, as well as unnecessary headaches and stress. To keep your basement dry and protected from floods, leaks, and humidity, there are a few important steps one must take. Continue reading to learn how to protect your home with a state of the art basement waterproofing system.
Self-Draining Sump Pump Prevents Basement Flooding
In many homes, a basement is an unused room that one simply passes through from time to time. But with the help of a basement waterproofing system, any territory can be transformed from damp and dreary into a healthy and usable space.
A great way to prevent basement flooding is by installing a self-draining sump pump and perimeter drain system. A sump pump works to collect excess water in your foundation and expel the water outside, away from the home. Without a sump pump or comparable waterproof waterproofing system, water can quickly and easily build up in your home's lower level and cause serious damage.
Speak with a certified basement systems specialist about the type of basement drainage system that's right for your home and budget. And remember to only consider a sump pump with a battery backup system, as it will continue to protect your basement from flooding even if you lose power during a heavy rainstorm.
Moisture Barriers help Prevent Leaks
Basement walls and floors are susceptible to leakage if moisture can easily pass through the lower levels of your home. And unfortunately, this is the case with most basements. Even if your foundation looks dry, there's a very good chance that moisture is continuously entering the area in the form of water vapor.
So what can you do to protect your foundation from water vapor damage and leaks? Hire a certified basement specialist to install a moisture or vapor barrier on your basement walls and floors. This covering will not only improve the appearance of your basement, but also keep it dry and safe year-round.
It is important, however, to install a moisture barrier after installing a reliable basement drainage system, such as a pump pump previously discussed. The two systems go hand-in-hand and are extremely effective basement waterproofing agents.
Energy-Efficient Dehumidifiers Help Prevent Humidity and Mold Growth
One of the most important steps in your basement "makeover" is to install an energy-efficient dehumidifier. A dehumidifier works to remove moisture from your foundation, thus lowering the humidity level. Why is this important? Because mold can not grow in an area with low humidity and can cause such health issues as allergies, asthma, and skin and eye irritation.
Mold and rot can also cause structural damage to your home. A basement dehumidifier can help prevent mold, mildew, and rot by reducing humidity, thus making your basement a safer and more habitable space.
Not any dehumidifier will do, however. Be sure to install a basement dehumidifier that is self-draining. This means that you do not have to empty the collection tray numerous times each week. Instead, the dehumidifier will run on its own, empty on its own, and you will not need to think twice about it!
Contact a Certified Basement Specialist Today!
If you'd like to have a basement that is not only dry and safe but also usable, contact a certified basement specialist today. He or she can help save you potentially thousands of dollars in water damages by protecting your infrastructure against flooding, leaks, and / or humidity!