Basements are unseen parts of the house. That is why most homeowners don’t care much about it. But when the rain starts and pours over your property, it may compromise the safety of the things stored in the basement.
That is why it is essential to follow preventative measures to avoid damage to your basement. One of which is through waterproofing basement walls. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the various methods and tips for effectively waterproofing your basement walls, ensuring a dry and secure foundation for your living space.
Understanding the Need for Waterproofing
The basement is one of the most vulnerable areas in a home, especially when it comes to water damage. Because it is in the bottommost area of a house, moisture can easily seep through cracks, leading to mould, mildew, and even structural damage.
Waterproofing your basement walls not only protects your home but also improves air quality and increases your property value.
Step-by-Step Guide to Waterproofing Your Basement
Basement waterproofing generally follows the same process as waterproofing other areas of the house. Here is a quick overview to give you an idea:
1. Inspect for Existing Issues
Before you begin the basement sealing and waterproofing process, inspect your basement for any signs of water damage or moisture issues. Look for wet spots, mould, or mildew on the walls or floor.
Leaving your basement as is and applying a waterproofing membrane without inspecting it is a bad idea, as these damages may compromise the effectiveness of the waterproofing material. With that, you may need to pay double because of the repair fees.
Inspecting your basement’s surfaces will also help you identify the severity of the waterproofing needed.
2. Choose the Right Materials
Much like any other project, you must choose the most suitable waterproofing material to ensure effectiveness, durability, and longevity. Remember, various options are available, including sealants and waterproof paints. So, choose wisely to avoid wasting money.
If you have a hard time deciding what waterproofing materials to use, it is best to consult a basement waterproofing contractor. These experts can help you make the best choice for your specific needs.
3. Prepare the Surface
Cleaning the surface helps ensure that the waterproofing material will adhere properly to the surface. Contaminants, loose particles, or uneven areas can affect the bonding of the waterproofing layer, leading to weak spots or areas prone to contamination.
Therefore, you must clean the walls thoroughly to remove any dirt, debris, or existing paint. If any, fill in the cracks and holes to prevent water penetration.
4. Apply Waterproofing Products
After you’ve prepared the surface, it is time to apply the waterproofing material. Different products require distinct application processes. That is why read the manufacturer’s instructions and follow them from start to end for the best results. Also, ensure you have everything you need for the application (e.g., brush, roller, etc.).
Why Should You Hire a Waterproofing Contractor?
While the step-by-step guide sounds easy to follow, waterproofing basement walls needs expertise and knowledge to ensure quality and precision.
Hiring a waterproofing contractor offers several benefits, especially when dealing with the complex task of protecting your basement from water damage. Here are some key advantages:
Expertise
Contractors have the expertise and experience needed for basement waterproofing. Unlike doing the project yourself, these professionals can assess your basement and determine the root cause of moisture problems. Then, they can recommend the most effective solutions, assuring you of long-term effects.
A waterproofing contractor’s expertise ensures the project is done correctly, preventing future issues.
Quality of Work
Waterproofing the basement yourself means you’ll only have to use the materials available in the shop. On the other hand, basement waterproofing contractors have access to high-quality materials, tools, and the latest technologies in waterproofing.
With these resources at hand, they ensure that the work they do is of the highest standard, which is often challenging to achieve with DIY methods.
Time and Cost Efficiency
Sure, hiring a contractor means you have to pay for their services or labour. However, it can help you save money in the long run. These professionals can complete the job more efficiently than a typical homeowner.
Plus, most companies or contractors offer warranties or guarantees to provide you with long-term value.
Dealing with basement waterproofing can be stressful for homeowners. Hiring a contractor takes the burden off your shoulders, enabling you to focus on other important tasks or simply enjoy peace of mind.
Customised Solutions
Not all basements are the same. Some may have existing damages, while others have a unique environment in their space. For this reason, it is essential to have a tailored solution to meet these specific needs. And a professional contractor can offer just that.
These experts can assess your space’s specific needs and provide customised waterproofing strategies.
Prevention of Future Damage
Aside from assessing the root cause of moisture issues in your basement, contractors can also identify potential future problems. In doing so, they can prevent issues by creating a resilient barrier against water intrusion and help you avoid costly repairs.
Compliance with Regulations
The different states in Australia have specific codes and regulations for buildings, even basements. Waterproofing contractors are well-versed with these local building rules, ensuring that your basement waterproofing complies with the standards, so you won’t have to deal with any legal issues.
Long-Term Support
As highlighted in this article, waterproofing contractors have the expertise and knowledge essential for the project. However, these skills may also be helpful in the future when you encounter problems in your basement.
Many waterproofing contractors offer ongoing support and maintenance services, helping you ensure that your basement will maintain its optimal condition even after the work’s completion.
Superior Waterproofing Can Help You Protect Your Basement!
Taking proactive steps towards waterproofing is key for a dry, secure basement and peace of mind. That is why you have to choose the right contractor for your project.
When it comes to waterproofing basement walls, Superior Waterproofing has a team of contractors who have the skills necessary for a stress-free and efficient waterproofing process. With us, you’ll get value for your money!
Call us at +61468760750 for more information about services and pricing.