Signs You Need to Waterproof Your Basement

Many people think that basement waterproofing isn’t really necessary until they see obvious signs of damage, like cracks on walls or flooding. Also, hiring professional contractors to do the job can be expensive, so why should you invest in something you may not need yet, right? But ensuring that your cellar is impermeable to water should be done as soon as possible.

Water brought about by heavy rains, storms, or leaky pipes can flood your basement any time. And pooling water in your cellar is never a good thing. It can cause structural damage to your home and even health problems. But if you’re still looking for signs that you need to waterproof your basement, here are some of them:

• Pooling Water

As mentioned above, pooling water in your basement is one of the most obvious signs you have to waterproof the area. The water puddle in your cellar may be caused by improperly installed downspouts or broken, cracked, or clogged pipes in your house. Poor drainage system, hot water tank failure, and improper sealing on the flooring and walls are other common causes of basement flooding.

• Molds and Mildew

Do you see any visible molds or mildew while inspecting your basement? If your answer is yes, then you should call your trusted waterproofing contractor right away. Exposure to molds can cause allergic symptoms like a blocked or runny nose, sinusitis, dry cough, sore throat, red eyes, and skin rashes. If any of your family members have asthma or lung problems, their condition can get worse.

• Presence of Insects or Pests

If your basement is always flooded with water, it can become an oasis for insects and pests like cockroaches, spiders, rodents, ants, and termites. So, if you see any insects or pests lurking in your cellar, then it is a clear sign that you need to waterproof the area. They, too, can cause structural damage and health problems.

• Unpleasant Smell

If you notice any musty odors in your basement, then it is a sign that mold or mildew are growing somewhere in the area. And if you detect the smell of urine or ammonia-like odor, then pests or insects may have already infiltrated your cellar. Such smells are often associated with pest droppings.

• Water Stains

If you see any water stains in your basement ceiling, wall, or floor, then it is a clear sign that water is seeping into your cellar. That said, you should contact your waterproofing contractor immediately so you can be sure that your basement is safe at all times.

• Swelling Floors and Walls

If the floors, walls, and doors in your basement are made of wood or timber, try to check if they are swelling. Timber usually expands when it absorbs moisture. You’ll know you have a swelling floor when you feel ridges or ripples on its surface. You can also identify a swollen door if you suddenly can’t easily open or close them.

• Rusty Nails and Hinges

Check if the nails or hinges in your basement are rusting. If they are, it’s a sign that you need to waterproof your basement. Iron nails and hinges usually rust when they come in contact with water and oxygen. This means that there’s moisture in your cellar, and water is seeping into your basement.

• High Energy Bills

Have you noticed an unanticipated increase in your electricity bills for the past couple of months? If yes, then it might be because of the humidity level of your home, which can increase every time your basement is flooded with water. And when this happens, your HVAC system would have to work harder to meet your comfort needs. As a result, your energy bills can go up.

Find a Reliable Basement Waterproofing Contractor Today

You’ve finally decided to waterproof your basement. The question now is, where can you find a contractor to help you ensure that your cellar is impermeable to water? If you live in Wisconsin, you may find a reliable waterproofing company at Fort Atkinson.

You can also ask your trusted friends and family members for suggestions. And if they can’t recommend anyone, you can always search the internet. You just have to make sure to look into legitimate sources. Find the best contractor for you and waterproof your basement now!