Why You Should Waterproof Your Basement
The basement is perhaps the most ignored area in a home. Homeowners usually pay little to no attention to the basement unless they want to do laundry or store some items.
However, due to this neglect, the basement may collect moisture which will snowball to create even more problems. If you notice a leak or water damage, engage the services of water damage experts to dry up the basement. But if you already have a dry basement, here are reasons to hire basement waterproofing services.
Damp Basements Are a Health Hazard
A damp, musty basement is a recipe for respiratory health complications.
When water seeps into your basement, the damp and dark environment will encourage mold and algae growth. The mold will then irritate your sinuses and cause other allergic reactions. Further complications include a runny nose, skin irritation, sneezing, and red eyes.
Waterproofing your basement will protect you and your loved ones from these adverse complications.
Basement Waterproofing Increases Property Value
If you are contemplating selling your home in the future, do not consider waterproofing as an expense. It will be an investment.
A moisture-free basement is an attractive selling point and will attract more willing buyers. A dry basement is ideal for buyers since they do not need to worry about the health hazard of a moist basement, the unattractiveness of mold growth, or musty smells.
Basement waterproofing is a good start if you want to increase your home's value.
Basement Waterproofing Enhances Structural Integrity
Accumulation of moisture in your basement will deteriorate the integrity of your walls. Further, water in your basement can contribute to uneven foundation settling. In the long run, the walls and foundation may cave in and compromise the entire home's structure.
Additionally, the damp structure can attract termites because they need moisture to survive. A colony of termites will thrive in the moist basement and cause further damage by ruining the wooden areas of your home.
If you waterproof your basement when moving into a new home, you will not have to worry about the rainy, cold months (flooding) or the moisture compromising your home's structure.
Waterproofing Your Basement Reduces Energy Bill
A damp basement will increase the humidity in your home. Consequently, it will be more expensive to dehumidify. The AC will use more energy to dehumidify, thus increasing your energy costs.
On the other hand, during winter, cold air seeps through cracks in your foundation and makes your efforts to warm the home fruitless. Waterproofing will insulate your home. Thus your cooling and heating efforts will be efficient all year long.
For more information on basement waterproofing, contact a professional near you.