The Importance and Advantages of Waterproofing your Basement

Water damage is the most prevalent type of damage seen in properties, anything from rain, seepage, and humidity to plumbing leaks, overflows, and broken pipes can be the cause of it. Water may seep in via any cracks in the foundation or inefficient heating and cooling of your home can generate a buildup of moisture or condensation. Water damage can occur in around 98 percent of basements at some point and so waterproofing your basement makes good sense.

The procedures and materials used to keep water out of a house or building's basement are called basement waterproofing and are made up of sealant materials, the construction of drains, sump pumps, and other measures.
When homeowners experience flooding or excess water in a basement it may lead to several issues, including structural damage and mold development, making basement waterproofing necessary. Basement wall repair may be helpful if you have observed leaks or flooding in your basement. However, Richmond VA Foundation Repair has the renovative solutions that will fix your basement walls entirely.
Even though basement waterproofing is often overlooked, it is important and can have significant effects on your property. It's crucial for a variety of reasons, here we take a look at some of the advantages to waterproofing your basement:

Make More Living Space

One of the top reasons to waterproof your basement is so it enables you to have a larger living space. When you waterproof your basement, it can be used should you ever need or want to increase your property size, by adding an additional bedroom, workout area, or office space. Keeping this space dry will help to minimize mold growth and make it a pleasant space to relax. Waterproofing your basement not only makes it livable, but it can also save you money in the long run.
Many people use their basements for storage purposes. You are allocating a large area of your house to possible germs, mold, and seepage. Waterproofing your basement adds a usable and healthy room to your home, usually increasing the value of your property.

Greater Support and Basement Protection

Another reason to waterproof your basement is to strengthen the foundation. The basement serves as the home's foundation and it must be robust enough to sustain your house for the years to come. Having your basement waterproofed will ensure your home lasts longer.
Overflowing in one part of the house might cause a slew of other problems. You can now choose from several waterproofing options, such as crack sealing or constructing an effective drainage system, rather than doing the damage control later. Whatever you do, make sure that the basement does not leak.

Structural Damage Avoidance and Insurance Claims Cost Reduction

When water seeps through the foundation, it may cause extensive damage to the entire structure. Water seepage can erode the margins and seams where walls and floors meet. It is possible with this type of damage for it to go undetected until it's too late. 
Our homes are usually the most significant investments we make, so it should be safeguarded from damages wherever possible. When water enters your basement, it seeps into other parts of your home, causing damage to your walls, foundation, and other structural components. You can avoid this problem and structural damage by waterproofing your basement ensuring that the edges and joints are protected.
It's a known fact that water damage accounts for almost one-fifth of all homeowner insurance claims. Basement flooding can cause foundation fractures and structural damage to wood, drywall, and other materials, which in turn raises the cost of claims. Substantial storms and flooding are not the only sources of water damage in your basement; if a slow leak is overlooked, it can eventually cause considerable structural damage. Spending a little money to waterproof your basement now will prevent you from spending a fortune on insurance claims later on.

Earn Extra Cash

Do you want to make some extra cash? Well, your basement can help you with that! You can convert your basement into a bedroom, hall, kitchen, or a single bedroom dormitory, and rent it out. Another option is to use it as a gaming zone or maybe a casual drinking bar. A restaurant is not a bad idea either. If your basement is adequately waterproofed, the possibilities are endless.

Beneficial to Your Health

Going into any part of your home should not be hazardous to your health. If you do not waterproof your basement, you risk exposing your house to mold and mildew, which can cause a variety of health issues. This includes asthma, symptoms, headaches and sinus issues. Mold develops fast in wet environments, so it’s best to make sure every part of your home stays dry, if you notice a musty odor in your house you should investigate as it might be due to mold.

Time Saver For Cleaning

Consider a concrete or epoxy floor for your basement. They are both easy to clean and great at keeping water out. Also consider building a drainage system into your basement to avoid future floods. Stone flooring is another choice that is easy to maintain with an added bonus of it enhancing the appearance of the basement.

Lowering of Energy Bills and Increasing the value of the property

Waterproofing your basement can help you save money in more than one way. The seals prevent cold air from infiltrating throughout the winter. It also keeps too much moisture out of your home. As a result, your air conditioner doesn't have to work as hard to comfortably maintain the temperature.
It is critical to preserve your property to sell it at a high resale value. You may not have any intentions to sell the house right now, but you may in the future so waterproofing the basement will increase the property's value. Nobody wants to buy a home with mold or a history of basement flooding. 
Conclusively, basement waterproofing is critical for protecting your basement, and also your house, from damage. It not only increases the value of the property but also protects the health of your family. 

Get in touch!

To have a chat with our renovation specialists about any aspect of home improvement or renovation you are considering for your property, get in touch today for a free no obligation consultation.