Preventing Basement Water Damage with Proactive Waterproofing Strategies

Basement water damage represents one of the most common types of problems faced by a homeowner. In fact, 98 percent of basements in the United States will experience water damage at some point in time, according to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.

Basement water damage can be a costly problem. As a result, a homeowner needs to be aware of the common causes of water damage. In addition, a homeowner must be proactive when it comes to taking steps to protecting a basement from water damage. Making an investment in protecting against water damage today can lessen the expenses associated with emergency intervention after water damage occurs.

Common Causes of Basement Water Damage

Flooding caused by a severe weather event is a common cause of residential and commercial basement water damage. Each year, homes experience basement water damage as the result of a significant storm. With that said, a major weather event is not the only common cause of basement water damage.

Cracks in basement walls and flooring represents another common cause of water damage. When cracks exist, they often permit the entry of water into a basement, even when a light rain occurs. In addition, cracked walls and flooring can permit water to seep into a basement due to what is known as hydrostatic pressure. This draws water lingering in soil to be drawn into a basement, even in the absence of a rain storm or a more serious weather event.

Age takes its toll on masonry and a residential or commercial foundation. The decay caused by aging represents another common underlying cause of basement water damage.

Professional Waterproofing Evaluation

Each basement has its own unique set of characteristics. In other words, when it comes to waterproofing a basement, a one size fits all approach does not work effectively.

The first step in determining what tactics to employ to waterproof a basement is to engage the services of a professional to inspect the premises. Through an inspection, a determination can be made of the vulnerabilities of a basement in regard to potential water damage.

Basement Waterproofing Strategies

There are many different strategies that can be utilized to waterproof a residential or commercial basement. Indeed, in many cases, more than one tactic will be employed to properly waterproof a basement.

Examples of strategies utilized to waterproof a basement include the installation of drains or more comprehensive basement drainage systems. In addition, effective waterproofing of a basement can include the use of sealants and waterproof coatings. The use of poly panel can also prevent water damage in a basement. The installation and use of dehumidifiers are also is also recommended in some cases.

Timing is Crucial

As mentioned previously, a home or business owner is best served by taking a proactive stance to waterproofing a basement. A home or business owner can enjoy the best results when waterproofing strategies occur before a water problem erupts.

The stark reality is that a small water leak or seepage problem can escalate in very little time. In other words, a drip can turn into a flow that results in costly damage to a basement.

There are waterproofing specialists who truly understand the need for fast action. Indeed, some of these professionals even offer rapid response services to ensure that a waterproofing specialist is on site quickly, ready to take action in addressing a water-related problem at a residence or business.

What to Look for in a Basement Waterproofing Professional

When seeking assistance from a basement waterproofing professional, there are a number of factors that should be borne in mind. First and foremost, experience matters when it comes to basement waterproofing. By engaging an experienced specialist, a residential or commercial property owner can rest assured that appropriate, comprehensive, and effective waterproofing strategies will be employed to address a basement’s needs.

Beyond the experience of a basement waterproofing professional, a home or business owner needs a basement waterproofing specialist that is appropriately licensed, insured, and bonded. In addition, a home or business owner should reach out to a waterproofing service that properly screens its team of specialists.

Finally, there can be some fairly significant disparities in the costs associated with waterproofing services. When at all possible, a home or business owner should take the time to shop around and compare prices for waterproofing services.