Just like other parts of a house, the basement is quite useful.
It can be used as an extra living space, a storage area, an office, or even a recreational section.
Despite all these uses, the area is usually quite overlooked.
However, this shouldn’t be the case, as a properly maintained basement not only enhances your home’s functionality but is also crucial for maintaining overall structural integrity.
One of the biggest challenges that you are likely to face if you have a basement in New Jersey is water intrusion.
This usually happens during the rainy season. Since water causes a lot of damage, it makes sense to avoid this problem before it happens.
Basement Waterproofing is Important
The best way to go about this is to waterproof your basement. This article explains several solutions that you should implement.
Sump Pump Installation
One of the best techniques is to install a sump pump. The way it works is by collecting and redirecting water away from your house. This really helps to avoid accumulation.
It’s installed in a pit at the lowest point. The pump later on activates when levels rise. As a homeowner in the state of New Jersey, you already know that the region experiences heavy rainfall and high groundwater levels. Therefore, having it down there comes in handy when looking at methods to manage intrusion and keep the surface dry.
French Drain
Installing a French Drain means that you will have an effective drainage system that will be redirecting water away from your foundation. It does this while minimizing hydrostatic pressure, which plays a huge role in reducing the risk of flooding.
The system is usually installed along the perimeter. This can be either inside or outside. It entails the use of a perforated pipe, which is buried in a gravel-filled trench. In case water happens to accumulate, it flows into the pipe and is then safely directed away from the house. This is usually to a drainage outlet.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
If your gutters and downspouts are clogged, they may lead to overflow. This is especially true during times of heavy rainfall. However, this is a very minor problem because all you need to do is clean and unclog the gutters.
As you do this, be sure to get rid of any dirt, leaves, and other debris that could be causing the problem. Doing this really helps to avoid flooding. The reason for this is that overflow increases hydrostatic pressure against walls, leading to leaks.
As for the downspouts, make sure that they direct water at least 5 to 10 feet away from the foundation.
Improve Yard’s Grading
If your yard is sloping toward your house, the chances of experiencing flooding are quite high. This is because water will only have one way to flow, which is towards your foundation. This water may later seep in, leading to significant damage.
To prevent this from happening, consider improving your yard’s grading. You can achieve this by making sure that the yard is sloping away from your house. Ensure that the areas close to your foundation are a bit raised to ensure easy flow.
By taking such actions, you are sure to minimize the risk of flooding and damage.
Call in the Experts for Complete Basement Protection
Although DIY waterproofing methods may work, it’s a better idea to consider hiring experts to help out. Professionals have the needed skills, equipment, and expertise to understand the problem and later on provide a good solution to help ensure your house stays dry, even during the heavy rainfall months.
In addition, they have the capability to spot problem areas that might not be obvious to the untrained eye. Through such expertise, they are able to prevent future water damage before it can turn out to be a menace.
Getting experts to help out also helps you save a lot of time and effort, which you would have used trying to get the job done.
Some of the things that you never want in your basement include water, mold, and rot. This is because these issues lead to very expensive repairs. The good news is that you can prevent these issues at once by installing a robust waterproofing system.
This article has provided various solutions that you should definitely consider implementing. Taking actions like having a sump pump or French drain and sealing openings and cracks assists in preventing floods.
However, for the best possible results, consider hiring a professional company to help keep your basement dry at all times.
