Debunking 4 Myths About Basement Waterproofing

When you are tired of living with the problems from a damp basement, waterproofing could be the perfect solution for your home. Unfortunately, all the things about basement waterproofing that you may hear from friends and family are not necessarily true.

You should not miss out on a service as important as waterproofing because of misinformation. This guide is meant to debunk three myths about basement waterproofing and supply you with the important facts that homeowners should know.

1. Basement Waterproofing Isn't Really Necessary

Some homeowners believe that basement waterproofing can't provide long-term results and will deteriorate too quickly to be a good value. Others may have told you that a damp basement really is not a big deal.

However, basement waterproofing is an effective solution that can last a lifetime with regular service. Most homes could benefit from some amount of basement waterproofing since most homes will have a wet basement at least once in their lifetime.

If you fail to address leaks, standing water, and high humidity in your basement, this will likely come back to haunt your home. Mold colonies can thrive in wet basements and release spores that cause respiratory irritation. Condensation from the air can even threaten the structure of your home by soaking into porous materials like wood framing and drywall.

2. Basement Waterproofing Is Just About Plugging Leaks

Keeping a basement dry requires a little more than simply plugging leaks in the walls. For this reason, it is superior to DIY interior waterproofing techniques such as black tar paint or epoxy sealants. Professional basement waterproofing uses polymer membranes to create a powerful waterproof barrier around your basement, but this is only part of the picture.

The other crucial function of modern basement waterproofing systems is redirecting the source of water that caused the moisture problem in your basement. This can become interior drainage with an electrical sump pump or drain tile around the exterior of your basement. Even the most advanced waterproofing systems will not work for every home, but a waterproofing contractor can recommend the best solution for your home.

3. Basement Waterproofing Is Time-Consuming and Costly

Many large home renovation projects can take weeks or months to complete and significantly disrupt daily life in your home. There is no shame in dreading projects like this, but you will be glad to learn that basement waterproofing is not on the same scale.

Smaller waterproofing solutions such as an interior drain and sump pump can happen with a single visit. Even if your contractors excavate around your home to install exterior trench drain waterproofing, they should only need a few days to complete the task after they have obtained any necessary permits. Basement waterproofing installation should have a minimal impact on your daily routine.

With the cost of basement waterproofing, your contractor will provide an individualized estimate based on the specific waterproofing needs of your home. For example, a home with wet basement problems from plumbing leaks will often be much easier to waterproof than a basement struggling with groundwater leakage from the surrounding soil. Reputable contractors will provide an itemized quote before beginning any work so you will know exactly what you are paying for.

The longer you wait to get help for a wet basement, the worse the problem will likely get. Basement waterproofing gives you peace of mind that your home will not face sabotage by water from the ground up. Call the pros at Central Penn Waterproofing today if you need quality basement waterproofing services! We look forward to helping you and answering all your questions about this service.