Excellent Steps for Successful Basement Waterproofing
Basements are prone to moisture buildup, and that’s never a good thing; water can do a lot of damage over time, and this setup will encourage mold growth. You don’t have to worry because even if you’re not comfortable with waterproofing your basement yourself, there are basement waterproofing experts who can do the job for you.
Basement waterproofing specialists perform the following work:
Preparatory work
Technically, this is not part of the basement waterproofing process, but it is an important aspect nonetheless. It includes looking around the area to determine what is causing the problem. You will have to drain the water. A washcloth will suffice with little water; otherwise, a sump pump may be needed, and basement waterproofing Toronto specialists have such equipment.
Foundation repair
The cause is usually a crack in the foundation. Water easily seeps through these cracks, and while they may not cause permanent damage to your home, if nothing is done about these cracks, it will bring many problems in the future. It is why basement foundation repair is so necessary. Cracks can be sealed using a narrow hollow rod to apply polyurethane sealants. When sprayed with a fine water mist, some sealants turn into a thick, waterproof foam. Some professionals use sodium silicate sealants, applied with a brush, garden sprayer, or roller.
Baseboard finish for waterproofing.
The fact is that basement waterproofing is not just about sealing gaps. Your basement was probably built with concrete, and this material is inherently porous. It means that water can easily get in, even if the cracks have been repaired. There are even times when an inner membrane is required for an extra layer of protection. Waterproofing specialists will apply waterproof paint to fix this problem.
Recheck the connections inside and out
Water can also enter through a hole that goes unnoticed, so all plumbing, pipes, and conduits should be checked to make sure there is nothing that a significant amount of water could pass through.
Water damage repair
Of course, replacing all water-damaged property will be up to the owner. Basement waterproofing professionals can take care of drying, cleaning, and even disinfecting the surface to make it habitable.
Observing mold
Mold and mildew will likely return as your basement becomes more livable for them. Many waterproofing specialists are also professionals at mold removal.
Conclusion
Basement waterproofing is not a one-time job. Cracks may reappear, and you may need to reapply waterproof paint after a while. But it’s a small price to pay to prevent water damage and keep your family safe.
