6 Mistakes People Make When Waterproofing Thier Basement
Here are six of the most common mistakes people make when waterproofing their basement and how you can avoid them.
1. Not waterproofing the basement at all
A home is one of the biggest investments most people will make in their lifetime. Protect your investment by having your basement waterproofed.
Waterproofing your basement will help to prevent water damage, mold growth, and other problems that can occur when water seeps into the basement. In addition, waterproofing your basement can also help to improve the energy efficiency of your home.
By keeping water out of the basement, you can reduce the amount of humidity in the air, making it easier to keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Waterproofing your basement protects your home and ensures its long-term value.
2. Choosing the wrong waterproofing system
When it comes to basement waterproofing, there are a number of different systems to choose from. It is important to select the system that is best suited to your particular property in order to ensure effective protection from water damage.
One common type of basement waterproofing system is a sump pump. This system helps to pump water out of the basement and away from the foundation of the house. Another option is a French drain, which is a system that drains external water away from your property.
The decision of which system to install should be based on a number of factors, including the size and layout of the basement, the amount of rainfall in the area, and the level of ground water around the property.
By carefully considering these factors, you can ensure that you select the best basement waterproofing system for your needs. Make sure you do your research and choose a waterproofing system that is right for your basement.
3. Installing waterproofing incorrectly
Basement waterproofing systems should keep water out of your basement, but if they are not installed correctly, they can actually do more harm than good. Sump pumps and French drains are two of the most common types of basement waterproofing systems, and both require some level of expertise to install correctly.
A sump pump must be properly sized and installed in order to work effectively, and a French drain needs to be installed at the correct depth and slope in order to function properly. If either of these systems is installed incorrectly, it could cause water to back up into your basement or even create new leaks.
4. Not maintaining the waterproofing system properly
Once you have a waterproofing system in place, it's important to maintain it properly. This means regularly checking for leaks and repairing them promptly. Failure to do this can void the warranty on your waterproofing system and lead to water damage.
Maintaining your waterproofing system is important. This means regularly checking for leaks and repairing them promptly. You should also check your French drains and sump pump to make sure they are working properly.
5. Ignoring water damage and not repairing it quickly
When water enters a basement, it can quickly cause extensive damage to the foundation, support beams, and other structural elements. In addition, water can also lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose serious health risks. For these reasons, it is essential to deal with basement water damage as soon as possible.
Some signs of basement water damage include:
Water stains on the walls or ceiling
Mold or mildew growth
Pooling water or moisture on the floor
Damaged furniture, carpets, or other belongings
6. Trying to do the work yourself instead of hiring a professional
Basement waterproofing is a critical home improvement for any home with a basement. Not only does it protect your investment by preventing water damage, but it also helps to create a healthy living environment. While it is possible to install a waterproofing system yourself, it is generally best to hire a professional.
Professional basement waterproofers like Over The Top Waterproofing have the experience and expertise to properly assess and install the most effective waterproofing system for your home. In addition, they will be able to provide you with guidance on how to maintain your system and troubleshoot any problems that may arise.
If you're considering waterproofing your basement, avoid making these common mistakes. Hire a professional like Over The Top Waterproofing to do the job right the first time.
We have years of experience in basement waterproofing, and we can help you keep your basement dry and free of water damage. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule a free inspection.