Can you feel it?
It's the chill of winter slowly creeping in, bringing with it the promise of those cozy nights by the fire, your favorite hot cocoa, and, unfortunately–the potential for basement issues.
Yes, you read that right. Often overlooked yet an integral part of our homes, basements can bear the brunt of the harsh winter elements if not properly prepared.
But worry not, because we at Adam Basement are here to guide you through this. With over 20 years of experience under our tool belts, we've become quite the experts in basement waterproofing solutions.
So, grab your steaming cup of coffee, settle in, and allow us to enlighten you on how to shield your underground space from Old Man Winter’s icy grasp.
Why You Should Consider Waterproofing Your Basement
Before we dive into the specifics, here are just a few compelling reasons:
Prevent Water Damage
Imagine this: Spring is here, the snow is melting, and everything outside is turning green. But then, you step into the lower level of your house and–squish! Your once dry and cozy space is now a swampy not-so-good-to-look-like mess.
A common scenario for some homeowners who haven’t considered waterproofing basement services.
As snow melts or heavy rains fall, water can find its way in, causing your house some extensive damage. From ruining your favorite vintage rug to weakening the structural integrity of your home, it could be a serious concern.
Protect Your Property
That room underground isn't just a storage area. It's also a treasure trove of your memories and valuable items. Perhaps you have some photo albums from your childhood, your grandmother's antique furniture, or your workout equipment down there.
And without proper waterproofing, these items could be at risk of water damage or even total loss.
Improve Air Quality
Have you ever walked into a damp below-stairs room and instantly noticed the musty smell? That's the scent of mold and mildew growth! Not only do they smell unpleasant, but they can also pose some health risks, especially for those with allergies or respiratory conditions.
But by waterproofing it, you're preventing the excess moisture, thereby inhibiting mold growth and significantly improving your home's air quality. It's a breath of fresh air for you and your entire family!
Increase Home Value
If you're thinking of selling your home in the future, a waterproofed basement can be a huge selling point. Potential buyers nowadays will appreciate the added assurance that they won't have to face any water damage or mold issues.
Moreover, a dry, usable space can significantly increase the total livable square footage of your home, making it much more attractive on the real estate market. Think of it as an investment—not just in your home, but in your future as well.
Common Methods Used in Basement Waterproofing Services
Sealing Cracks with Epoxy
Noticing a small crack in the wall you might think, "It's not a big deal. It's just a tiny crack." However, even the smallest of cracks can allow water to seep into your basement, leading to even bigger problems down the line. That's where the mighty epoxy comes to the rescue.
You need to inject it carefully into the crack, and once it dries, it creates this strong, waterproof barrier that prevents any moisture from seeping through.
While this may sound like a simple DIY job for some, it may require precise application and an understanding of how it works. As experts in the field, we at Adam Basement have the necessary skills and experience to ensure that this is done right the first time.
Vapor Barriers
Typically plastic or foil sheets are installed on the inner side to prevent moisture from penetrating your underground space–and this needs to have careful planning and accurate execution.
It must be installed correctly to prevent any buildup, which could lead to–guess what--mold growth. So make sure to let the professionals do this effectively and efficiently.
Sump Pumps
Designed to collect and pump out any water that finds its way in, this hand device is installed in the lowest part of your house. While it might be tempting to try and install it yourself, it's a task best left to our team to ensure they operate efficiently when you need them most.
Dehumidifiers
Your basement is naturally prone to high humidity levels, which can lead to dampness and again, mold growth. But a dehumidifier can help as it sucks air from your basement removing any moisture and then blows it back into the space.
Another good thing is that you can buy one and just plug it in. A simple task, yes. However, choosing the right one for the area where you will put it and the moisture levels in it can really be tricky. It is best to reach out to us so we can guide you in selecting the perfect one for your needs and ensure it's set up for optimal performance.
Ready to Winter-Proof Your Basement?
WET BASEMENTS ARE NO FUN.