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A leaking basement is a common and troublesome issue faced by many homeowners, posing risks of water damage, mold growth, and compromised structural integrity. Whether caused by heavy rainfall, poor drainage, or foundation issues, addressing basement leaks promptly is essential to prevent further damage and maintain a dry, healthy living environment. In this article, we’ll explore the various causes of leaking basements, the potential consequences, and effective strategies for diagnosis, prevention, and remediation.
Basement leaks can stem from a variety of sources, each presenting unique challenges for homeowners. Understanding the underlying causes is crucial for implementing targeted solutions. Here are some common causes of leaking basements:
Ignoring basement leaks can have serious consequences for both the home and its occupants. Here are some potential risks associated with leaking basements:
Diagnosing and remedying basement leaks requires a systematic approach to identify the root cause and implement effective solutions. Here are the steps involved in addressing leaking basements:
Preventing basement leaks requires proactive measures to protect the home from water intrusion. Here are some preventive strategies to consider:
Leaking basements pose significant risks to the integrity of the home and the health of its occupants. By understanding the causes and consequences of basement leaks and implementing effective diagnosis, remediation, and prevention strategies, homeowners can safeguard their homes against water damage and maintain a dry, healthy living environment. Whether through exterior improvements, interior waterproofing measures, or professional assistance, addressing basement leaks promptly is essential for preserving the structural integrity and value of the home for years to come.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
A leaky basement can be a homeowner’s nightmare. Not only can it damage your property, but it can also lead to a host of health issues and costly repairs. Understanding the causes of basement leaks, their potential consequences, and the various solutions available is crucial for maintaining a dry and safe home environment. In this article, we will explore leaky basements, from their underlying causes to effective solutions.
One of the most common causes of basement leaks is cracks in the foundation. Over time, the concrete or masonry used in your home’s foundation can develop small or large cracks due to various factors like soil settlement, temperature fluctuations, or water pressure. These cracks can allow water to seep into your basement during heavy rains or when the water table rises.
Proper drainage systems are essential to divert water away from your home’s foundation. When gutters and downspouts are clogged or damaged, water can overflow and pool around the foundation, increasing the risk of leaks. Similarly, missing or poorly functioning French drains or exterior perimeter drains can contribute to basement moisture issues.
Hydrostatic pressure occurs when the water table rises, exerting pressure on your basement walls. If your home’s foundation lacks proper waterproofing or drainage, the increased pressure can force water through cracks or porous concrete, resulting in leaks.
Sump pumps are designed to pump water out of your basement to prevent flooding. However, if the pump malfunctions, becomes overwhelmed, or is absent altogether, your basement may be at risk of leaks during heavy rain or snowmelt.
Water intrusion can compromise the structural integrity of your home. Moisture can weaken the foundation, lead to rotting of wooden structural components, and corrode metal supports. Over time, this can result in costly and extensive repairs.
A damp environment in your basement is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. These harmful microorganisms can not only damage your property but also pose serious health risks to occupants, causing respiratory problems and allergies.
A history of basement leaks can significantly reduce your home’s resale value. Potential buyers are often wary of homes with a history of moisture issues, which can make it harder to sell your property at a desirable price.
A leaky basement can render valuable basement space unusable. Whether you intended to create a cozy living area, home office, or storage space, constant moisture intrusion can limit your options.
To address cracks in your foundation, professional basement waterproofing companies often employ techniques like epoxy injection, polyurethane injection, or carbon fiber reinforcement. These methods seal existing cracks and prevent further water intrusion.
Exterior waterproofing involves excavating the area around your foundation, applying a waterproof membrane, and installing proper drainage systems like French drains and weeping tiles. This solution effectively prevents water from reaching your basement walls.
Interior waterproofing methods are applied inside the basement to manage moisture. Solutions may include installing an interior drainage system, such as a perimeter drain or a sump pump, and applying waterproof coatings to the basement walls.
Regular cleaning and maintenance of your gutters and downspouts are essential for diverting rainwater away from your home. Ensure that water is directed at least six feet away from your foundation to minimize the risk of leaks.
Adjust the landscape around your home to ensure that the ground slopes away from the foundation. This helps prevent water from pooling near the foundation and reduces the chances of leaks.
Leaky basements are a common problem that can have serious consequences if left unaddressed. Identifying the causes of basement leaks, understanding their potential consequences, and exploring the various solutions available are essential steps in maintaining a dry and safe home environment. Whether you choose exterior or interior waterproofing, foundation crack repair, or improved drainage systems, taking action to address basement leaks can protect your property, your health, and your investment in your home. Don’t let a leaky basement undermine the comfort and value of your living space; take the necessary steps to keep your basement dry and functional.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
Water seepage in basements is a common and frustrating problem that homeowners face. Whether it’s a damp, musty smell, water pooling on the floor, or visible stains on the walls, basement water seepage can lead to significant damage to your home and pose health risks due to mold and mildew growth. Fortunately, there are professional repair methods available to address this issue effectively and restore your basement to a dry, safe, and habitable space.
Before delving into professional repair methods, it’s crucial to understand the underlying causes of water seepage in basements. This knowledge will help professionals tailor their solutions to the specific problem at hand. Common causes include:
Hydrostatic Pressure: This occurs when water in the soil surrounding your home exerts pressure on your basement walls and floor, forcing water to infiltrate through cracks and gaps.
Poor Drainage: Inadequate or clogged exterior drainage systems, such as downspouts and gutters, can lead to water pooling around the foundation, increasing the risk of water seepage.
Cracks and Gaps: Over time, concrete basement walls and floors can develop cracks and gaps that allow water to penetrate.
Sump Pump Failure: A malfunctioning or overwhelmed sump pump can result in excess water accumulation in your basement.
When faced with basement water seepage, homeowners should consider hiring professionals who specialize in waterproofing and foundation repair. Here are some effective repair methods they may employ:
Excavation: In this method, the soil around the foundation is excavated to expose the exterior walls. The walls are then cleaned, repaired, and sealed with waterproof coatings to prevent water penetration.
French Drains: A French drain is a perforated pipe buried around the foundation to collect and redirect water away from the basement. It is encased in gravel and covered with a layer of soil.
Exterior Waterproof Membrane: A waterproof membrane, such as asphalt or rubberized material, is applied to the exterior walls to create a barrier against water intrusion.
Interior Drainage System: An interior drainage system consists of a network of pipes and a sump pump installed along the basement’s interior perimeter. It collects and directs water away from the basement, preventing it from reaching the living space.
Epoxy Injection: This method involves injecting epoxy resin into cracks and gaps in the basement walls to seal them and prevent further water infiltration.
Sealant and Vapor Barrier: A professional may apply waterproof sealants and vapor barriers to the interior surfaces of the basement walls to reduce moisture and prevent water seepage.
A sump pump is a critical component of any basement waterproofing system. Professionals can install a reliable sump pump system and ensure it operates correctly to prevent basement flooding.
Repairing Cracks: Addressing foundation cracks with epoxy injection or other appropriate methods can prevent water from entering the basement through these weak points.
Wall Reinforcement: In severe cases, where the foundation walls are structurally compromised, professionals may use methods like wall anchors or carbon fiber reinforcement to stabilize the walls.
Professionals may also assess and repair your home’s gutter and downspout system to ensure proper drainage and prevent water from accumulating around the foundation.
Hiring professionals for basement water seepage repair offers several advantages:
Expertise: Waterproofing and foundation repair professionals have the knowledge and experience to accurately diagnose the problem and implement effective solutions.
Long-Term Results: Professional repairs are designed to provide long-lasting protection against water seepage, reducing the likelihood of future issues.
Health and Safety: Proper repairs can eliminate the risk of mold and mildew growth, creating a healthier living environment.
Increased Home Value: A dry, well-maintained basement enhances your home’s value and appeal to potential buyers.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that your basement is secure from water damage and seepage allows you to enjoy your home without worrying about potential flooding or structural issues.
Basement water seepage is a problem that should not be ignored. It can lead to costly damage and health risks if left unaddressed. Professional repair methods, such as exterior and interior waterproofing, sump pump installation, foundation repair, and proper drainage system maintenance, offer effective solutions to keep your basement dry and safe. Investing in professional repairs not only preserves your home’s value but also provides you with peace of mind knowing that your basement is protected from water seepage for years to come.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
Basements are oftentimes neglected, yet they play an important role in any home. In addition to providing extra space in your home, a basement can also affect the quality of air in your home. Yet it is common to find basements that are wet, damp, or moist. You cannot comfortably use such basements to create extra space for a living area, a garage, a store, or a laundry area.
But if your basement is dry and well-ventilated, you can put it to several other uses because it will have good air quality. Basement waterproofing can help prevent the entry or seepage of water into your basement so that you can effectively use it. Here are some key signs that your home needs basement waterproofing services.
You may not easily spot signs of water in the basement, but if the basement is damp and has musty odors, these are signs that it is humid. High humidity in the basement can cause the basement to feel cold and damp.
Dampness causes the growth of mold, which is associated with musty odors. So even if you cannot see water in the basement but the area feels cold and has an unpleasant smell, you need to have a basement waterproofing technician check it for possible moisture or water seepage.
If your basement is damp, it may have a mold infestation that you can eventually see. Mold will most likely appear on areas such as walls, drywalls, and ceilings among others. If you spot patches of mold, this is an obvious sign that you need to call a basement waterproofing expert for help.
Pools of water on the basement floor can occur due to water seepage through walls or the floor itself. Apart from puddles of water on the floor of the basement, you may also notice water on the walls of the basement. All these are signs that your basement needs to be waterproofed.
Cracks on the floor of your basement can cause water or moisture to seep into the basement. If water seeps through these cracks, they can become wider and cause even more water to enter the basement. This can affect the structural integrity of your house. So you should call a basement waterproofing contractor if you see notorious cracks on the walls of your basement.
Effloresce involves the movement of dissolved salts through porous materials such as rocks and walls. The salts are then deposited at the surface of the materials as a whitish substance. Therefore, if you notice chalky deposits on the walls of your basement, the walls are porous and need waterproofing.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
Basement waterproofing is a big job and can be costly. Many homeowners worry about the cost of hiring a contractor to do the work, especially when it may appear that they could do it themselves. Professional basement waterproofers have the experience and specialized tools needed to properly seal your walls and floors, making sure that no moisture or water will seep in. Basement waterproofing systems installed by professionals provide long-term protection from flooding— something you may not get with DIY solutions. Furthermore, professional contractors are trained to identify potential hazards such as mold growth and structural damage caused by water entering into your home’s foundation, so their services offer peace of mind for years to come. Basement waterproofing can also save you money in energy costs by reducing the amount of air leakage from your basement, which can help lower your cooling and heating bills in the long run.
Another common concern is that contractors may take shortcuts when completing basement waterproofing projects. However, reputable Basement Waterproofers are certified professionals who adhere to local building codes and regulations. They also use quality materials and follow industry best practices— this ensures that your basement waterproofing job is done right the first time!
Ultimately, basement waterproofing can be an expensive but necessary part of home maintenance. Working with a professional Basement Waterproofer provides you with peace of mind knowing that your home is protected against future water damage and flooding. Investing in basement waterproofing now will save. you money in the long run and can help keep your home safe and dry.
If you’re considering basement waterproofing, it’s best to hire a professional Basement Waterproofer who has experience with Basement waterproofing projects of all shapes and sizes. When searching for Basement Waterproofers, be sure to ask about licensing, insurance, certifications, warranties and guarantees. You may also want to inquire about any special offers or discounts that may be available— these could help save you money on basement waterproofing costs! Additionally, make sure to review any feedback from previous customers before selecting a Basement Waterproofing Professional for your project. This will give you an idea of what kind of customer service and results to expect.
If you have any questions or concerns about basement waterproofing, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional advice! With the right Basement Waterproofer, your basement will be protected from water damage for years to come.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
It isn’t uncommon for homeowners to want to convert their basements into living spaces. Finishing your basement is an easy and cost-effective way to increase the square footage of living space in your home. Waterproofing is one of the first steps that homeowners take to make their basements habitable. However, there is much more to be concerned about than water seepage. In this blog, we discuss various factors to consider when choosing basement systems to ensure that your basement is safe to live in.
Hazards In Your Basement
While basement systems are primarily designed to prevent basement flooding and other water damage issues in the basement, they also help to create a safe environment in the basement by keeping various other hazards at bay. Some of the hazards you should be aware of when choosing basement systems for your basement include:
This is a common problem in moist basements. Mold infestations often occur as a result of water seepage as well as high levels of humidity in the basement. Mold spores produce mycotoxins that can cause various health problems.
You can prevent the occurrence of mold and mildew in your basement by investing in basement systems that are effective at keeping water out of the basement. Not only should the systems be effective at preventing flooding but also at keeping humidity levels down. Consider including a dehumidifier or a ventilation system in your basement system to maintain healthy humidity levels.
Radon is a radioactive gas that occurs naturally in the soil. This gas can rise through the soil and penetrate your foundation. High levels of Radon in your basement can result in various health problems. This radioactive gas has been linked to the development of various forms of cancer. It is, in fact, the second leading cause of lung cancer and is responsible for over 21,000 deaths annually linked to lung cancer.
You can keep Radon at bay by ensuring that your basement system includes the installation of a gas barrier. The gas barrier will keep Radon out of your basement and help ensure a safe environment.
Aside from Radon, there are various other noxious gases that occur in soils and can penetrate your foundation. These include methane. These gases not only result in bad smells in the basement but can also be dangerous to your health. Accumulation of gases such as methane can even result in the risk of an explosion.
Installing a gas barrier will help to keep these gases out of your basement.
Want to create a living space in your basement? Consult a professional basement waterproofing contractor to ensure you create a safe living space.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
Basement waterproofing is an important step toward making the basement healthier and more functional. A basement that is dry and well-ventilated can be used as a laundry room, living space, and more.
By waterproofing your basement, you also avoid the unpleasant basement odors that are common in many homes. Keep in mind the fact that if your basement has a high level of indoor pollutants, these contaminants can spread into other spaces in your home through doors and floors.
Another reason to do basement waterproofing is to maintain the structural integrity of the basement’s walls. Water and moisture can cause notable damage to your basement’s walls and thus affect the rest of the building. Here are some telling signs that your home needs basement waterproofing.
If your basement is persistently damp or has a musty smell, this is a sign that it has a high level of moisture. The moisture could be seeping in through the basement’s walls or floor. A recent case of flooding in the basement can also cause this space to have a musty smell. Basement waterproofing will help seal any cracks on the basement walls or on the floor, thus eliminating the seepage of water into the basement.
Musty smells are associated with the growth of mold in damp areas. Apart from the presence of a moldy smell in your basement, you may also experience visible signs of growing mold. These include black, white, green or brown patches on wooden surfaces, ceilings and other areas. If you see these signs, you need to call a basement waterproofing company.
Water can seep into your basement through the floor or walls if these surfaces are porous or have cracks. You can see the water as patches on the walls or small pools on the floor of the basement.
Efflorescence is the movement of dissolved salts through porous materials such as bricks, concrete, stucco or other building surfaces. The salt is eventually deposited on the surface of the material, and will appear as a greyish or white material when water evaporates. If your basement has signs of efflorescence, it needs to be waterproofed.
Moisture and water can seep into your basement through cracks on the floor and walls of the basement. Therefore, it you spot any cracks in the basement, you should contact a professional basement waterproofing contractor.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
There are several causes of wet basements, such as a burst pipe, drainage problems, poor home design, etc.
Wet basements can be a serious problem for homeowners because they can cause damage to the house and its contents. In order to prevent this from happening, as a home owner you should take the necessary steps to fix the wet basement.
What are the Different Types of Basement Waterproofing Options?
It is essential to know the different types of basement waterproofing options in order to make the best choice for your home.
There are many different types of waterproofing options that you can choose from. The following are some of the main ones:
How to Prevent Water and Moisture Damage
Water seepage/entry is one of the most common causes of wet basements. As a homeowner, it is important to know how to prevent water and moisture damage in your basement.
As mentioned above there are three major ways of preventing water and moisture damage to your basement. These are:
1. Epoxy injections and sealers
These are meant to be a temporary solution especially where the cracks are small or the home owner doesn’t have a budget for a more permanent fix. However, epoxy injections and sealers should not be applied over painted walls or on walls with efflorescence.
2. Exterior waterproofing
This is a more long term fix and involves digging around the foundation to expose the source of the leakages. The foundation is then waterproofed using polymers and waterproof membranes. This is a more expensive approach and takes more time. It should be done by an experienced foundation repair contractor.
3. Interior drainage
This is a way of waterproofing the foundation from the inside. It involves the use of things like a sump pump and a French drain system. Most homeowners consider this method the best as there is no major digging around the foundation and it is more cost effective.
Conclusion
If your basement floods, it is vital to get the area cleaned up as soon as possible. The sooner you can start the cleanup process, the better for you and your family. Do this with the help of a professional basement contractor. An experienced contractor can easily find the root cause of wet basements and fix it once and for all.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
Basement ventilation is a controversial topic. Some people will tell you not to ventilate your basement while others will tell you ventilation is important for your entire home including your basement. Basement ventilation is important as the conditions in your basement have an impact on indoor air quality in the upper levels of your home. However, those against ventilation argue that ventilation will compromise basement waterproofing.
If you’re concerned about ventilation and basement waterproofing, it is best to consult with a waterproofing contractor. Contrary to popular belief, these contractors don’t only focus on installing waterproofing systems. They also ensure other factors that affect the health of your basement are considered. They can therefore be of great assistance in determining the best way to ventilate your basement and ensure that it remains clean and dry.
Here’s how a professional contractor can help.
Natural ventilation is one of the best and cheapest ways to ventilate your basement. It’s as simple as throwing your basement windows open. However, windows in the basement are one of the most common entry points for moisture in the basement. A professional contractor will help you ensure you can ventilate your basement without allowing excess moisture into the space. They can help you with a selection of windows and their installation. They will seal the windows for you to prevent penetration of moisture. They can also install window wells and drainage systems to keep excess moisture out.
Natural ventilation may be a great option in the summer when the weather is good. However, you can’t throw open your windows when the weather is bad. You will need to find an alternative to ventilate your basement. Professional contractors can help you determine the best option for your home. They will guide you through the options available in the market and help you select and install a system that meets your needs. A whole home ventilation system will ensure air circulation within the entire home including the basement without compromising basement waterproofing.
While circulation of air helps to improve the quality of air in your basement, you may need to go a step further to reduce the levels of humidity in your basement. A humidifier will remove the moisture in the air and reduce it to healthy levels. A professional contractor can help you select a humidifier with the right features and the best size for your needs.
Are you grappling with how to ventilate your basement? Talk to your basement waterproofing contractor for guidance.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.
Wet basements are not desirable in any home. A wet basement is an indication that water is seeping through the foundation of your home. This can cause notable damage not only to the basement but also to your entire home.
Wet basements are also associated with the growth of mold and poor indoor air quality. And when mold grows in your basement, it will damage your property and cause a number of health issues including allergies, respiratory illnesses, sneezing, and general discomfort.
Signs of wet basements include damp spots on the basement walls, pools of water on the floor, efflorescence, musty smells, mold growth, peeling paint, dry rot, rust, and warped paneling among others. When you spot any of these signs, you need to contact a professional basement waterproofing contractor so that they can help you waterproof the basement and do other repairs to fix the problem.
Here are 5 dependable things that a professional contractor will do to solve the problem of a wet basement.
Water seeps through the walls of your basement when the walls are porous. Cracks on the walls of the basements can also cause moisture and water to pass through the walls and enter the basement. A basement waterproofing contractor will help you by sealing the cracks and pores on the basement walls to eliminate the percolation of water into the basement.
One of the reasons that can cause water to enter the basement is faulty or incorrectly positioned gutters and downspouts. Also, the downspouts may be dumping roof water too close to the foundation. A technician will solve this problem by fixing the gutters and downspouts and adding gutter extensions so that roof water is dumped far away from the foundation.
French drains are drainage systems that are used to prevent surface and groundwater from penetrating the foundation. French drains are commonly installed during the basement waterproofing process to guide surface and groundwater away from the foundation and the basement.
One of the things that could be making your basement wet is an interior or external leak. Fixing these leaks will help keep the basement dry. Therefore, a professional waterproofing contractor will examine your home for any leaks near the foundation and in the basement.
The slope of the land around your home determines how often water reaches the foundation. A good contractor will help you grade the land around the foundation so that it slopes away from the foundation https://basementcracksandleaks.com/contact-us/to eliminate the accumulation of water near the basement.
Contact the Professionals at Basement Cracks & Leaks Today! 800-639-1131
Is a fully licensed and insured professional Waterproofing & Foundation Repair company serving communities throughout Michigan since 1993. Family owned and operated. We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and professional attention to detail. Our company is fully licensed by the state of Michigan and insured for your peace of mind. We have been accredited since 2001 with the Better Business Bureau and are members of the Basement Health Association receiving the National Star Service Award 15 years running.
Whether you need an interior drain tile system installation, wall straightening with anchors or stabilization, encapsulation, or epoxy injection we do it all at Basement Cracks & Leaks, Metro Inc. We specialize in both interior and exterior waterproofing systems & foundation repair.
Our team will come to your home & evaluate your specific problem with over 30 years of industry experience behind them. Using that knowledge & expertise they will design and draft a custom repair plan to meet your home or businesses specific needs. Before we begin your project, we will review your plan with you and make sure you completely understand the repair process. From start to finish we will work with you every step of the way.