The Friendly Contractor’s Blog

Posted on: 10 November 2022

A wet basement is a homeowner's nightmare. It is a health hazard and can lead to extensive damage to your home's foundation and structural integrity. If you suspect your basement is wet or even damp, the first step is to determine the cause. Once the cause is identified, you can then take steps to remediate the problem. In some cases, waterproofing your basement may be the best solution.

What Causes Wet Basements?

There are a few common reasons for wet basements, including:

• Leaking pipes
• Poor drainage around the foundation
• Clogged gutters
• Cracks in the foundation
• Excess groundwater

These are just a few of the most common causes of wet basements, but it's best to consult with a professional to determine the root cause of your wet basement.

What Are the Consequences of a Wet Basement?

A wet basement can lead to all sorts of problems, including:

• Health hazards. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that mold and mildew can grow in damp environments, leading to respiratory problems, allergies, and other health issues.
• Foundation damage. Water can seep into cracks in your foundation and expand when it freezes, causing even more damage.
• Flooding. If left unaddressed, a wet basement could lead to flooding. Flooding not only causes extensive damage to your home and belongings but can also be dangerous.

A wet basement is more than just an eyesore. It is a serious problem that needs to be addressed as soon as possible.

How Do You Waterproof a Basement?

Basement waterproofing is not one item but several components working together to keep your basement dry, including:

• Interior waterproofing. This involves installing a waterproofing paint that seals the basement's masonry walls.
• Sump pump. A sump pump is installed in the lowest point of your basement and pumps water out of your basement before it has a chance to cause any damage.
• Exterior waterproofing. Exterior waterproofing involves digging around the perimeter of your foundation and installing a waterproof membrane along the outside of your foundation walls. 
• French drain. A French drain is a perforated pipe installed along the perimeter of your foundation. It collects rainwater and moves it away from your home's foundation.
• Gutters. Your home's gutters and downspouts direct water away from the foundation and out into your yard.

Waterproofing your basement is an investment that will pay off for years to come by protecting your home from water damage and keeping your family safe from health hazards posed by mold and mildew growth. If you think you might need to waterproof your basement, contact a professional for help determining the best course of action for your home. 

Contact a local basement waterproofing service to learn more.