The dry basement is a key extension of the house.
You can use it as an extra storage space or library.
It can even serve as an entertainment room.
Other homeowners also use it as a home office or gym. It doesn’t matter your desired use.
You may not be able to enjoy the full benefits down there if the space is experiencing moisture-related problems.
A damp environment is quite uncomfortable to spend your time in.
Apart from this, it creates an environment where mold and mildew can grow.
Water issues may also lead to structural problems.
Foundation Waterproofing To Keep Your Home Dry
These challenges are quite expensive to fix. A basement with water problems also reduces the value of your entire house.
The good news is that potential issues can be limited by investing in proper moisture management. With effective strategies, you should be able to transform the space down there into a dry and functional part of your home.
This article looks at how to transform from damp to dry using proper waterproofing methods.
Identify the Source
Before any action is taken, the source of dampness has to be identified. Therefore, consider checking for obvious sources. Potential causes are leaks from pipes and fixtures. The water could also be seeping in through foundation cracks. It could also enter through window wells. Additionally, remember to check for signs of condensation on walls.
The assessment carried out here needs to be thorough. So, check both the indoors and outdoors. Some important places to check out include gutters and downspouts. Also, remember to analyze the ground level, and plumbing network.
By determining the origin, you will be able to have a solid comprehension of the right method to implement.
Interior Waterproofing Solutions
In case you are aiming at achieving complete dryness, then you have to invest in some interior damp-proofing solutions. These methods mean that the situation is being resolved from the basement. The idea here is to prevent accumulation around the foundation.
Some commonly used techniques include installing interior drain systems, sump pumps, and vapor barriers. These techniques effectively control dampness and prevent potential buildup, especially during times of heavy rainfall.
By addressing moisture challenges from the inside, you are able to protect the area from flooding, structural deterioration, and fungal infestation. These benefits make interior solutions quite beneficial for those looking to reclaim their basement.
Exterior Techniques
The best way to address issues is to deal with them at the source. The idea of exterior damp-proofing is to prevent moisture from getting inside through the foundation walls in the first place.
The process entails excavating around the structure, applying a damp-proof membrane, installing drainage panels, and placing a French drain to redirect water away from the structure.
An element really analyzed during this step is the slope. If the ground is sloping towards your house, the chances of dealing with flooding will be quite high. If this is the case, proper grading has to be conducted. This is the only way to ensure that water will be directed away from your home’s structure.
Actions Taken to Deal with the Musty Smell
After handling the moisture problems, the musty smell will still be left behind. This is especially true if the water had caused damage to property like carpets, boxes, furniture, or drywall. These pieces are known to absorb and retain odors. This is mostly the case after drying out. Therefore, contemplate deep cleaning to eliminate the lingering smell. If some are not salvageable, then consider discarding them instead.
Also, don’t forget to ensure the space down there is properly ventilated. This is in fact the extra key to ensuring a dry basement. It allows fresh air to circulate, minimizing humidity levels. Consider opening windows frequently. If this is not possible, due to lack of windows, contemplate installing vents to promote airflow. An exhaust fan also works great. You could even get a mechanical ventilation system and pair it with a dehumidifier. It should help manage moisture and promote air quality.
The basement is quite valuable. However, it’s prone to water damage. The good news is that this doesn’t have to be the case for you. This is as long as you apply the aforementioned techniques. With the strategies, you should be able to achieve a home that is dry at all times.
For the best possible results, contemplate reaching out to a professional waterproofing company. Experts like us could come in and do a quick inspection of your basement and then advise on the best ways to keep the space dry year-round.
