Waterproofing is important whether you are refurbishing a basement to use as living space or storage. Water not only damages walls and any furniture or other items in the basement; it can also lead to the development of mold and mildew. Mold is a health hazard that can be dangerous to homeowners and occupants so early detection of leaks is extremely important. To ensure that all sources of leaks and seepages are identified, it is best to contract a professional basement company to do the checks, repairs and waterproofing.

CAUSES OF LEAKAGES IN BASEMENT 

The main causes of leakage in basements result from:

  • Initial poor workmanship: If the original work on the basement was shoddy, this can lead to all sorts of problems. This is one good reason to ensure that any work you have done on your basement is done by an experienced contractor.  
  • Settling of the building: As buildings age, they settle and this can result in cracks. These cracks are a perfect place for water to seep through into basement walls. 
  • Leaking pipes: Since many basements have drain pipes, these are frequent sources of leakages. 

STEPS TO WATERPROOFING

Taking steps to keep moisture and water from your basement, especially if you have just paid to have the area renovated or planning to renovate is absolutely necessary. While you can get tips on how to get this done yourself, the best result can only be expected if the waterproofing is done by an experienced service provider. 

A basement renovation professional is equipped to notice any cracks, holes or defects in the walls or flooring that can lead to water seepages. These defects will need to be repaired before any sealant or other waterproofing techniques can be applied. 

Checking the foundation is another necessary step in identifying any possible source of seepage. Soggy ground around the foundation is an indication of poor drainage which is allowing water to affect the foundation of your home. While you may not be able to identify this, a trained professional will. 

A basement remodeling professional will know exactly what to do and the type of material necessary to properly repair any cracks and other defects on basement walls and floor. It is possible to purchase waterproofing material such as epoxy yourself; these solutions only work if the surfaces are properly prepared prior to applying the solutions. The time and effort this takes for the untrained is a waste of time and money. As such, contracting a professional to do this is your best option. 

Your basement is valuable space that should be enjoyed. To turn this space into a livable area, call us for a consultation and no obligation quote. We will help you design and make your basement space suitable for use for whatever you choose. We’re Matrix Basement Systems, Inc. and we have offices in several locations from Chicago to Rhode Island. See our website for more details and local phone numbers.