Basements are challenging areas of the home to deal with, but when handled correctly by a waterproofing company, they can give homeowners a beautiful and usable space that can provide many years of enjoyment.
A finished basement can be a wonderful investment, whether it is used for an extra living room, a recreational space, a home office, a bedroom or a home theater.
All of these choices can transform your family’s quality of life — not to mention your home’s resale prospects. Even if your basement is unfinished, leaving it in good condition so buyers can easily imagine it being finished can prove valuable when it comes time to sell.
However, basements can be dangerous areas to contend with. Their location below ground means that there is the potential for cracking walls, water seepage and the growth of dangerous mold. All of these problems can be prevented by a waterproofing company looking at the basement and taking steps to ensure the space remains dry.
This is important whether you are finishing your basement or not because the structure of your home as well as your family’s health depend on it.
Which Locations in the U.S. Need Waterproofing?
If you have noticed signs of water in the basement, such as water stains, efflorescence, a musty or damp odor, or unexplained sickness in your family, it is time to call waterproofing experts before the problem gets worse, no matter where you live.
Here is a look at some of the states in the U.S. where waterproofing services are experiencing a high demand.
Delaware
The weather conditions in Delaware leave many homeowners with basements and crawlspaces that are constantly damp.
Waterproofing is commonly used there to protect these spaces from future water intrusion and the damage associated with it, such as foundation problems that can put the structure of the home at risk.
Maryland
With an average annual precipitation of a generous 59 inches, Maryland homeowners often struggle to keep their basement dry.
Moreover, with thunderstorms averaging once every five days in July and August, this is one state where waterproofing is an essential service rather than a luxury.
Flooding is not uncommon here, and basements are a prime target for water damage.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania basements are subject to plenty of rain and snow. The state saw nearly 50 inches of precipitation throughout 2020, which provided lots of opportunities for water to enter homes.
Waterproofing contractors in Pennsylvania offer useful services such as below-grade waterproofing, foundation repair, sealants, remodification, ventilation, vapor barriers, pumps and mold prevention.
Virginia
Virginia is considered by many to be a great place to live thanks in no small part to the relatively mild weather year-round, but Virginia basements are not immune to water damage, particularly during the wet summers.
Many Virginia homeowners use basement waterproofing services to keep their home dry and the air healthy. Exterior waterproofing, water leak repair and drains are just a few of the common services needed here.
Why Waterproof Your Basement?
Here is a look at some of the reasons homeowners should consider waterproofing services.
Reduce Flooding Risk
Flooding is a serious risk to homes in the Northeast, and just one storm can be enough to create a serious water problem in your basement.
Waterproofing reduces a basement’s flooding risk by changing the way water interacts with the home. Waterproofing the foundation keeps water out of your home’s most vulnerable spot, while French drains can redirect water away as needed.
Reducing Moisture
Moisture can make your home feel warmer in the summer. It can also cause metal objects and fixtures to oxidize and damage the items you store in your basement, particularly cardboard boxes housing personal items and papers such as important documents.
Waterproofing the foundation can prevent this as water tends to travel upward as it evaporates. It can also prevent other problems caused by moisture, such as warped or rotting walls.
Preventing Mold
Even small amounts of water or damp air provide the perfect environment for mold to proliferate.
Once mold bacteria start to take hold in the basement, they can spread quickly throughout the home and affect furniture, clothes and the health of its inhabitants.
Severe mold problems require the services of mold specialists, which can be a significant expense. Waterproofing a basement can help prevent all of these issues.
Reach Out To The Waterproofing Company Professionals
Everything in your home rests on its basement and foundation. With foundations typically shifting and moving over time, the surface can crack and allow water to seep in. New and old homes alike are susceptible to this issue, and the resulting structural damage can be significant.
Waterproofing is a daunting task that requires an expert hand. Trained professionals are necessary to ensure the work is carried out correctly and that any dangerous mold is dealt with safely.
If you would like to find out about preventative waterproofing or correcting existing basement dampness or water issues, get in touch with the best waterproofing company at Waterproof Caulking & Restoration.