Why Waterproof Basements?: Basement Waterproofing Keeps Your Home Sturdy, Safe, and Dry

Basement leaks are bad news. Waterproofing your basement can provide myriad benefits from helping preserve your home's structural soundness to increasing the usable square footage of your house. If you've ever wondered, "Why should I waterproof my basement?," keep reading for the answers!

When it comes to many property improvement projects, the need for the job is undeniable. Why put on a new roof: to keep the rain out of your home. Why put in a new furnace: to keep the house warm this winter. But when it comes to basement waterproofing, many homeowners don't see the point. But when you really look into it, the need for a dry basement is nearly as elementary as the need for a new roof or furnace. Why waterproof basements? Because it helps keep your home strong and sound, prevents mold-related illness in your family, and turns wasted space into prime real estate. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of waterproofing your basement.

Property Preservation

Assume that every basement and crawlspace is a bit damp? Think a little water in your basement is no big deal? Think again! Water can actually lead to premature deterioration of everything from foundations to floor joists, undermining the structural stability of your home and calling for expensive repairs. Wet basements can create issues with:

• Wood rot


• Foundation cracking


• Molding building components


• And other deterioration problems

So to keep your building standing tall longer, you'll want to address water in your basement. Options span the gamut from crawlspace waterproofing to sump pump installation and beyond, and depending on your specific situation, one solution may be better than another. To ensure a successfully waterproofed basement, your best bet is to consult with a qualified foundation contractor. He or she will be able to suggest the most effective answer for your basement leaks and moisture.

Health

Wet basements have mold. It's as simple as that. Mold needs just three things to thrive: oxygen, a food source, and moisture. Since mold feeds on everyday materials like paper and wood, and obviously removing oxygen from your home isn't an option, the easiest way to control mold is to control moisture levels. In most cases, mold needs a humidity level above 50% or standing water to grow, so reducing moisture in your basement will help prevent mold from flourishing.

There are many types of mold, but all can cause health issues for you and your family. Ranging from allergic reactions and asthma-like symptoms to skin and respiratory irritation, the negative health effects of mold can even include some types of cancer. To keep your family healthy and safe from the effects of mold, a dry basement is a must. Sealing your foundation walls is usually sufficient for minor moisture issues, but for serious basement leaks, a French drain system or other solution may be required. Regardless of how you opt to waterproof your basement, keeping the space dry is the key to minimizing the chance of mold growth and maximizing your home's safety.

Usable Space

A wet basement is just dead space at the bottom of your home. But with a dry basement, the possibilities are endless. Store memorabilia and holiday decorations or finish the space as a craft room or entertainment area. When you don't have to worry about water ruining your treasured photos and heirlooms or stress about moisture destroying your newly installed carpet and drywall, the sky's the limit for how you can use your basement. So instead of resigning yourself to leaving your basement as wasted space, capitalize on the square footage by pursuing a basement waterproofing plan to make your water problems a thing of the past.

Maria Allen is a home improvement specialist. He is also an online marketing professional for Prospect Genius, offering affordable SEO for local companies.