No homeowner wants to discover a wet basement … again! The dampness, the musty odor, the ruined carpet and flooring. Even worse, after you’ve dealt with the issue, you discover there’s more rain in the forecast.
Before you get stuck in an endless cycle of water damage, consider basement waterproofing!
What Is Basement Waterproofing?
What is basement waterproofing? It may take many forms, from DIY solutions to professionally installed systems. Each is designed to prevent water and moisture from entering the basement. Whether water seeps in from cracks in the foundation or pours in from an errant gutter or quickly filled egress window, a basement waterproofing system or systems may be right for you.
Why Is Basement Waterproofing Important?
Any water in your basement should be cause for concern.
Water that enters the basement may:
- Cause damage to the floor, ceiling, drywall and other materials
- Destroy items in storage
- Ruin downstairs living spaces
- Allow the growth of mold and mildew
- Impact indoor air quality and more!
Do I Need to Waterproof My Basement if It’s Never Flooded Before?
Have you ever asked yourself “Do I need to waterproof my basement?” If you’ve asked the question, you probably should. It only takes one flood to wreak havoc, and a dry basement today is not guaranteed tomorrow. Before taking action, we recommend talking to your neighbors, looking for information about any nearby floodplains and consulting a local building inspector.
Basement Waterproofing: Where Should I Start?
Waterproofing techniques will all require several steps, ensuring that there’s no way water can infiltrate the space.
Addressing everything from egress windows to cracks in the foundation, waterproofing the basement requires that no stone go unturned! We recommend that basement waterproofing be done by a certified professional.
Should you choose to waterproof your basement, make sure to speak with your contractor about these common areas of concern:
- Wall, floor or foundation cracks that allow water to leak or seep into the space
- Window wells with damage or that lack proper drainage
- Gutters and downspouts that leave large quantities of water close to the foundation
How Much Does It Cost to Waterproof a Basement?
The cost for basement waterproofing varies depending on several factors including your home’s age, design and condition. In general, though, homeowners should expect to pay between $1,900 and $6,000 ($3.50 to $6.50 per square foot) to waterproof an average basement. This range fluctuates, based on factors like pre-existing water damage and whether or not you hire a pro to complete the work for you.
Choose Rainbow Restoration for Water Damage Remediation You Can Trust
Before you waterproof your basement, it’s vital that damage from your damp/flooded basement is remediated. Our local IICRC-certified teams are ready to restore your basement to its pre-loss condition so you have peace of mind that your home’s foundation is solid and free of damage prior to waterproofing. Call us or request an estimate online to get started.
