Why should You Waterproof Your Basement

The area circumscribed by your basement is much more than a simple room for storage. When dealing with the tribulations that seem to be ruining its integrity, you must remember that the basement is the very structure of foundation on which your entire apartment stands. Also, because the basement is situated lower than the ground level, it is vulnerable to extreme water damage and other risks of a similar degree. Therefore, in order to successfully steer clear from these prospects, the only sensible and cost-effective solution appears to be water-proofing the basement. Apart from this rudiment, in the following section, we will be noting down the top reasons why a waterproof basement is the best that you can do for it and the rest of your house.

• Prevents flooding

According to the claims of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) of America, floods inflict damage claims that go up till $3 billion each year thus, succeeding as the most destructive natural disaster of the country. Owing to the losses that floods are capable of triggering, we can safely assert that the configuration of damage remains more or less the same in every flood-prone country around the world. Hence, instead of waiting for the catastrophe to the first strike and then formulate cures, getting your basement waterproofed during its construction or general home repair will not only save you a lot of money but, also assure protection to your valued possessions regardless of the weather conditions.

• Prevents mold and mildew

Let’s keep aside the panoramas of flood for a moment and consider the customary water leaks caused by rain, snow or general moisture buildup in your basement. These susceptibilities can also be tagged as “silent killers” as they do not impose their repercussions directly but, accentuate over a long time. These odds are far more perilous than that of flooding and can lead to dangerous growth of molds and mildew- the prime sources that inflict a long catalog of health problems such as skin irritation and allergies, uncontrolled coughing and even asthma. However, with a waterproofed basement at play, these likelihoods are thoroughly eliminated and you are left with a fresh and hygienic establishment for your property.

• Reduces energy costs

Remember how we were taught that to reduce the temperature inside a room, the warm air must rise only to be replaced by its cooler counterpart at the ground level? Well, with a water-damaged basement, cooling down your apartment during the summers will be a far-fetched dream. Wet basements tend to lock up the moisture therefore, surging the humidity of your home and curbing the effects of an air-conditioner. Similarly, as we have already mentioned in the preceding section, water damage weakens the walls of the apartments they have crept into by forming cracks, they might let in the cold air from outside despite the repeated efforts of the air-conditioner to keep your house warm during winters. Waterproofing will efficaciously insulate your entire home and make your attempts of heating and cooling more productive throughout the entire year and consequently, reduce energy costs.

When you witness water damaging your basement in reality, trust when we say that you will be taken aback by the penalties that accompany it and you would be living your worst nightmare. Therefore, before any of the probable repercussions of water damage in your basement turns true, get it waterproofed to be on the safer spectrum of the radar.

1.Windows : The slits of the advantages can cause cold air to enter the room. It is the main reason for the high energy costs in winter and summer. Periodically check the condition of the joints and if they are damaged, apply a new layer of putty.

2.Taps : The main cause of the faucets dripping is worn washers. The washers are inside the faucets and, being rubber, tend to wear out quickly. To replace them, close the water supply, unscrew the leaking handle that controls the flow of water to the nozzle, change the washers, and reopen the water stopcock.

3.Washer and dryer : It is important to ensure from time to time that the water supply hoses of the washer are not leaking. One of the main reasons for claims in home insurance is due to damage caused by leaks in the washing machine. Check them every year and change them frequently.

In the case of the dryer, it is important to clean the filter periodically to prevent the accumulation of lint, causing a fire. But also, this way you will extend the life of the machine.

4.Water heater : There is nothing more frustrating than turning on the hot water and only cold water coming out. The heaters also need maintenance to work efficiently and minimize the number of breakdowns. At least once a year, it is convenient to drain the water from the heater and clean the interior surface. To drain the heater, close the water and energy supply of the heater. For electric water heaters, it is necessary to disconnect the light, and for those of gas, turn the thermostat pilot setting.

Then connect a water hose to the bottom of the tank and place the other end somewhere where the water does not cause damage. Turn on all the hot water taps in the house and then open the drain valve. Refill the tank and turn on the power supply again or you could have a water heater repair in your future. 

5. Plumbing : The accumulation of fats and oils is the main cause of blockages in the pipes, so we must avoid pouring this type of substance. If we do it by accident, it is important to turn on the hot water and pour some detergent.

Placing a strainer in the bathtub drain is the best way to avoid the jams caused by the hair. This will reduce the amount of hair in the pipes.

To unclog the drain, avoid chemicals, as they can cause damage that involves costly repairs. Use a snake leak better to remove the blockage.

6. Air conditioning : Air conditioners are usually the most ignored at home. However, regular maintenance is necessary, since a breakdown can be much more expensive. Check the condensation tube to make sure that the water can flow without difficulty and that there is no mold that can clog it, and that can endanger your family’s health. Also, check that the screen of the device through which the air comes out is clean to reduce energy consumption.