Homeowners often have this problem of a damp, wet and leaky Basement waterproofing. The whole house can be affected over time when water keeps on entering a basement. The damage that water can cause to a foundation ranges from mild to severe. It can also create other problems with mildew and harmful molds — especially for adults and children who have problems with breathing including Asthma. You should be aware of the important reasons why stopping basements leaks can help prevent problems associated with water and moisture.

There are several purposes that basements serve including storage, additional living space, work space and a play area for children. Basements are used only as a place of storage in some homes, while in other homes, basements are used as fully furnished living spaces, with no difference from any other existing living space in the home. All the same, the way you’ve chosen to use your basement still does not change the fact that water can be an annoying disturbance if it enters your basements.

Top Tips for Preventing Basement Flooding | Wet Basement Solutions

• Plumbing Maintenance– You should inspect your plumbing thoroughly at least once or twice a year, to make sure that there are no leaks in the pipes and that all of the industrial fasteners are secure. Other things that you should also inspect are your backwater valves, sump pump, and floor drains. It is wise to hire a professional to do the inspection for you if you are not sure of what you are looking for, so you can be sure of safety.
• Backup Sump Pump– When a power failure occurs, your sump pump may stop working and pack up. However, you can save yourself from a flooding disaster in your basement by getting a backup sump pump that runs on batteries. These backup pumps are usually positioned just at the side of your main pump.
• Furnishings– It is best to be prepared for all situations since you can’t prevent all of them. Make sure all of your furniture has legs long enough to keep the fabric and cushions from becoming wet just in case a flood occurs. You can also make use of ceramic tiles on the walls to reduce the degree of damage that may arise and to make cleanup very easy. Also, instead of carpet, consider area rugs. They can be easily removed and cleaned in the event of a flood.
• Downspouts– Downspouts can often cause flooding in your basement if they are not positioned in the right location or if the eaves troughs they are attached to are full of leaves and debris. Be sure to clean the eavestrough often and to check all the nuts and bolts that hold them together so that water can run to the downspout without difficulty. Also, examine to be sure that the downspout is placed in such a manner that it does not face the foundation and doesn’t drain water right against the home as well.
• Window Wells– It is common for basements to have window wells that allow sunlight into the basement and offer additional exits from the home in case of emergency. But it is quite unfortunate that these wells can also turn into holding grounds for water which can damage the seals on your windows till they begin to leak. Fortunately, we can fix this problem with just a few fasteners and bolts. Install covers over your window wells to redirect rainwater away from the well and your foundation by making use of screws, nails, and bolt fasteners.

Why A Clogged Drain Is A Bigger Problem Than It Seems

When it comes to our homes, there are certain things that we just expect to work.

Something as simple as washing the dishes and draining water out of the sink, for example, becomes so ingrained in our daily lives that we take the luxury for granted.

All of that changes, of course, when issues arise. A clogged drain can be an incredible nuisance that interrupts your day in ways you might never have thought possible. Even more than mere inconvenience, however, is the fact that clogged drains can pose a health risk if the water is left standing too long.

It is important to have your clogged drain repaired as quickly as possible.

Why do drains clog?

We all know how frustrating it can be when our drains are clogged – but you do know why this happens in the first place? In general, drains are designed to flush water through the pipes and away from your home. This means that the only substance they are specifically meant to handle is water.

That’s it.

Now think about the kind of things that end up being flushed down your drain…

In the kitchen, for example, you might send food debris down the drain after eating or washing dishes. Your bathroom drain might become clogged with hair. The main idea is that clogs happen because we do attempt to use drains in ways that they are not meant to be used. Over time, that food debris or hair really builds up, and eventually stops the progress of the water altogether.

When that happens, you’ll find yourself with a drain that either moves incredibly slowly, or one that refuses to drain at all. In the latter instance, you might find yourself with standing, dirty water for days on end until you can either conduct clogged drain repair or hire someone to help fix the issue for you. Neither option is great, to be honest, because leaving standing water in your home for any significant amount of time can negatively impact your health. Instead of encouraging the growth of bacteria or other, similar issues, it is important to take care of the problem head on.

What will professionals do to help? (Basement Waterproofing)

Clogged drain repair is a common service that professionals handle all the time. In general, someone will come out to your house to take a look at the situation and determine where the clog is located in the drain. Once they know where the clog is and have a vague idea about how it was formed, they can go about the process of clogged drain repair to help you reclaim the use of your home. 

How to Waterproof Your Basement and Prevent Toxic Mold

Have Your Basement Professionally Inspected

One way to find out how moisture and leaks are getting into your basement is to hire a professional to inspect it for you. Trained experts can quickly find the source of water entry, which then enables them to lay out your available options for getting rid of the issue. You can try inspecting the basement yourself, but there may be areas that you overlook.

Use a Dehumidifier to Reduce Humidity

The humidity in your basement can be caused by various factors. By using a dehumidifier, you can help combat the problem. Of course, it’s recommended that you find the sources, so that the humidity can be reduced, if not eliminated. The relative humidity of your basement should be at or below 50 percent. A dehumidifier can give you more control over the humidity level of your basement.

Seal the Cracks and Holes in Your Foundation and Walls

Small holes and cracks in your foundation can allow moisture to enter into your basement. You can have your foundation repaired by a professional to ensure that all areas are properly sealed. Any damage to your walls can also be plugged and sealed with cement and sealant. You can have compounds applied to your basement walls to seal up the pores, which too can let in moisture.

Have Drainage Systems Installed Inside and Out

If your problems don’t deal with excess moisture, you can have heavy leaks fixed by repairing the cracks and holes and having drainage systems installed to prevent these issues from reappearing. Drainage systems can be installed by a professional on the inside of your basement and along the outside of your exterior. For the inside of your home, you can have a sump pump installed. This will draw out any water that causes a flood in your basement during a storm or plumbing issue. On the outside of your home, you can have water diverted from the base of your home. Different methods can be applied, such as window wells, to keep the water from your basement windows. Others include downspouts, gutter systems and draining systems.

In order to keep mold out of your home, you have to focus on expelling moisture and keeping it from re-entering your property. With these tips, you should have no problem with getting your basement waterproofed.

4 Affordable Ways to Waterproof Your Home

Having your basement waterproofed doesn’t have to be an expensive investment. In fact, a lot of property owners are becoming more knowledgeable about the methods and are saving money by only choosing those that are truly needed. Knowledge is power for homeowners who know a thing or two about waterproofing basements.

When it comes time to choose the best techniques to use for your home, it’s a good idea to consult with a basement waterproofing expert. To learn more about how you can waterproof your basement without dishing out a lot of cash, read on.

Have Your Water Problem Professionally Diagnosed

It seems like an odd way to save money, but imagine how costly misdiagnosing a leaky or moist basement could be. Buying dehumidifiers and painting walls with waterproofing compounds without truly knowing the source of the problem could render your efforts useless. With the assistance of a professional, you can have your basement and the exterior of your foundation inspected for breaches. Only then should you begin discussing your options for treatment.

Eliminate Humidity in Your Leaky Basement 

Humidity can make your basement very damp, causing potential mold and mildew growth. This can be a major issue, especially if it begins to spread throughout the basement and into other areas of your home. To avoid this becoming an issue, you can use simple methods to stop excess humidity. For instance, if you have a dryer with leaky vents, you can foil tape it to help stop the air from seeping into your basement.

Avoid using duct tape because this will eventually fall off. When it’s hot and humid outside, make sure to keep the windows closed. If you have a bathroom in your basement, have a vent fan installed and make sure those who take a shower there use it. Another option would be to run a dehumidifier to lower the moisture level.

Prevent Condensation Caused By Your Pipes

Insulating your pipes is a good idea if you have an issue with them causing condensation in your basement. When cold pipes are dripping with water, it can cause moisture to enter into the air. All you have to do is cover these pipes with insulation, so that the condensation can be stopped. This process is affordable and the foam insulation used is quite cheap.

Insulate the Walls of Your Basement (Basement Waterproofing Services)

Condensation can also be caused by cold walls. By insulating your walls, you can overcome this issue. Plus, having your basement walls insulated could also help save you money on your power bills, especially during the hot and cold months when your HVAC system is running more than usual. Keep in mind that you should avoid insulating walls that have a leak. It’s required that you first fix it, so that you don’t end up with a mold problem.

The water problems you’re witnessing in your basement can be resolved with the right knowledge. By enlisting the help of an experienced basement waterproofing professional, you can ensure that your property is waterproofed properly.

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