Here’s Why Your Home Improvement Project Must Include Basement Waterproofing

1. Here’s Why Your Home Improvement Project Must Include Basement Waterproofing

2. Most home owners do not consider basement waterproofing when planning a home improvement or renovation project. But we can’t probably blame them. A basement has never been a glamorous part of a house but a damp, mouldy basement isn’t also appreciated. Water damage is the most common form of damage a house can incur, and your basement is one of the most vulnerable areas of the house. Plumbing leaks, burst pipes, overflows, pooling of rain water on the ground can cause water to seep into the basement through cracks on the floor and walls, resulting in structural damage. Here are some common signs that indicate it is high time to waterproof your basement;

3. Stinky Odour Are you smacked by a blow of a musty odour every time you open your basement door? There’s a good chance your basement has excessive moisture from water seepage which has gone undetected for months or years.

4. Mould and Mildew Persistent humidity whether due to water leakage or created by warm air released by varied house appliances can become a breeding ground for mould in the basement. As soon as you spot it, look for an expert to discuss your waterproofing solutions.

5. Efflorescence Do you notice white, chalky substance on the walls and floors of your basement? Efflorescence is a crystalline salt deposit often seen on a concrete surface after the water evaporates from the surface. It may not be a huge issue, but it is a good sign your basement needs waterproofing.

6. Water Marks Do you often spot puddles of water on the grounds of your house? They may be the reason behind your damp basement. Ground water, surface water and every water from outside sources like leaky pipes can intrude into the basement. So, if you find any water that is not draining off your house, act immediately.

7. Swollen doors and windows Wood can soak up the moisture and increase in size to change its original shape. If you have to shove a basement door or window firmly to close it properly, your basement may be carrying enough moisture to get your wooden doorways, windows and fixtures swollen. A wet basement can cause much more than a musty stink. No matter how much of a headache it seems to you, it is important to include basement waterproofing in your home improvement. Here’s how waterproofing your basement can benefit your home;

8. Safe and stronger foundation A basement which is not waterproofed will only serves as a dark, dusty storage space for your old newspapers, unused furniture and outdated equipment. Waterproofing your basement can strengthen from certain part of your house to the entire house’s foundation.

9. A private, functional space A waterproofed basement will have no sign of mould and mildew growth, musty odour and cracked walls, thus can serve as an ideal underground area for recreational activities, laundry or entertainment.

10. Energy savings By waterproofing your basement, you will prevent water and moisture from intruding into your home thus preventing your cooling and heating systems from working harder. Effective waterproofing will reduce humidity levels in your home, keeping your energy bills reasonable.

11. Promote a healthy environment Mould or mildew growth caused by high humidity and moisture levels in the house not only lead to structural damage but also trigger the development of health ailments like infections and respiratory problems. Waterproofing your basement will reduce mould growth, thus reducing the risk of health issues. Once you realise you have a wet basement, the next step is to call in the professionals. An experienced professional will inspect your basement appropriately and suggest a waterproofing solution based on your needs and budget.

12. Reach Us ASTEC Paints 22 - 24 Pinn Street, St. Marys, S.A. 5042, Australia enquiries@astecpaints.com.au (08) 8297 2000 http://www.astecpaints.com.au/