No matter where you live, waterproofing your basement may be among the most important things you can do for your home. However, in Utah waterproofing is not a question of ‘if’ but ‘when’. Living in a state that’s known for its snow, the extreme weather the Utah environment presents is something every homeowner has to take into account. In fact, wet basements affect many Utah homeowners.
Finding the Problem
Stemming from a number of culprits, wet basements can be the first sign that you need to update the waterproofing on your home. Unfortunately, according to the American Society of Home Inspections, more than half of American homes have this problem. While wet basements are the first signs your home is in need of repair there are a number of reasons your home could flood, including:
- The concrete walls are cracked
- Poor yard drainage that has increased the stress on your home’s sewage system and overwhelmed the foundation
- Your septic system is blocked
- Poorly designed or damage gutter system that has led to poor drainage
Preventing Flooding in Your Basement
Since there are a many senarios that could cause damage or flooding, waterproofing your basement requires a number of things. From the concrete walls to the drainage in your yard, here a number of things needed to keep your basement clear of water damage.
- Diagnosing All Sources of Water: Find every problem area that could cause water damage to your basement including pipes, cracks in your concrete, window/door opening, and more.
- Get Rid of Excessive Humidity: Eliminate any source of humid air by adding vents, fans, and sealing off any pipe leaks. You can also consider adding a dehumidifier to your basement.
- Insulate Pipes: Cover cold water pipes with foam pipe insulation to prevent any excess humidity or condensation.
- Insulate Walls Properly: Poor insulation can lead to excessive condensation build up that can cause all sorts of water damage. However, if water is leaking from the outside this is not the solution-it’ll only create a mold infestation.
- Proper Landscaping Keeps Water Out: Having the right type of landscaping surrounding your house can be a huge help in keeping water damage away from your basement. This includes proper lawn edging, gravel placement, mulch, grass, and soil.
- Extend Downspouts: If your basement leaks when it rains, this could be your solution. Consider adding extended downspouts to your home to channel excess water away from your home and basement.
- Seal Foundation Cracks: Holes and cracks in your foundation can allow water to creep into your basement. Plug the holes up with the proper cement filling to keep water out.
- Waterproof the Walls: Properly seal your basement with the right waterproofing sealant. These sealants prevent water from leaking into your basement by sealing the foundation. If properly done, this can truly help in the waterproofing process.
- Install a Proper Drainage System: The most long-term fix, proper drainage systems keep your basement clear of water for years to come. However, it’s important that the drainage system is properly done and requires the help of a professional.
Ready to Waterproof Your Basement?
The home experts at Aspire Construction understand how to properly build a basement that keeps water out of the home and in your grass. Working with Aspire Construction we’ll be able to find the source of your water woes and efficiently attack the problem without breaking the bank. Contact us to get started on your waterproofing project.