Basement waterproofing faqs - Value Dry Waterproofings

Basement Waterproofing FAQs: Ask the Experts

March 3, 2022
Basement waterproofing
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If you’re reading a blog about basement waterproofing, chances are you have seen evidence of water in your basement and you’re doing some homework to determine if you have a serious problem. That’s a smart thing for a homeowner to do. Unaddressed water seepage can cause structural damage and affect the structural integrity of your foundation walls.

Before we get into the most frequently asked questions about basement waterproofing, we need to talk a little bit about the signs that you might need waterproofing in the first place. These can include:

Streams of water running down your walls forming puddles
Water seeping up through cracks in your basement floor
Damp basement walls
Musty Smells
Efflorescence (a chalky white substance on the walls)
Cracks in your foundation walls or floors
Mold or mildew in your basement on belongings

If your home is more than 10 years old, you probably already have experienced water seepage in your basement. That’s because the damp proofing sealant the builder put on the exterior foundation walls has deteriorated over the years.

This allows water from saturated soil to work its way into the porous concrete or cement block walls compromising your home’s foundation walls. It’s only after the walls are saturated that you begin to see some of the structural signs above.

What Is Basement Waterproofing?

Professional basement waterproofing involves a custom solution created for your home that works to divert the water penetrating your foundation walls. This plan helps to prevent water from getting into the rest of your basement. The first step involves a basement inspection where one of our inspectors evaluates your basement, looking for indications of where the water is coming in.

This can include testing basement finishings for moisture as well as looking for visual signs of current water seepage, previous water damage such as stains, peeling paint, or crumbling of concrete, as well as all of the signs mentioned previously.

Based on the inspection and your intentions for your basement, we come up with a custom basement waterproofing plan, which can include:

Installation of a French drain system with sump pumps
Repairing and addressing cracks in the walls and floor
Stabilizing the foundation and addressing foundation issues
Installing a waterproof membrane on the walls
Installing a dehumidifier or ventilation device
And more, depending on your specific situation

Do I Need Basement Waterproofing?

If you have signs of water intrusion in your basement, yes, you probably need basement waterproofing. But there are a few things you can do on your own to see if that resolves the issue. These include:

Confirm the cause of the water is not from a leaking appliance or plumbing.
Keep gutters and downspouts clear from debris
Use downspout extenders to direct water away from your home’s foundation.
Keep basement stairwell and window drains clear.
Make sure soil slopes away from your home ensuring proper grading.
Use window well covers.

If you’ve already implemented these precautions and you still have signs of water intrusion, it’s time to call in the professionals before things get worse. You need to protect your home.

What Does Basement Waterproofing Cost?

This is a tricky question because basement waterproofing doesn’t cost the same for any two homes. Each home is different when it comes to the size of the perimeter and the extent of water intrusion. For example, full perimeter waterproofing of a 4,000 sq. ft. home will likely cost more than waterproofing a 1,500 sq. ft. home.

And if you invest in basement waterproofing at the first signs of water intrusion, it will cost you less than if you wait for the more extensive basement flooding to occur.

With that being said, the cost for installing an interior French drain system with one or more sump pumps may run upwards of $10,000. It might be less for your particular home. The only sure way to find out is by scheduling our free home inspection.

Is Basement Waterproofing Worth It?

In a word, yes. Professional basement waterproofing protects the structural integrity of your home. Your home is probably the largest purchase you will ever make. It is worth it to protect your investment and your family’s health. It also protects the possessions that you keep in your basement, whether it is finished or not. Professional basement waterproofing companies offer transferable warranties, protecting and even increasing the resale value of your home.

If you’re worried about paying for professional basement waterproofing, you should know that we offer financing options to help you cover the cost over time.

What Is Your Service Area?

While our company is based in Maryland, we serve homeowners in Maryland, Northern Virginia, Washington DC, the eastern panhandle of West Virginia, and Delaware.

Schedule a FREE Basement Inspection

If you’ve seen signs of water intrusion in your basement, act now to protect your investment in your home and your family’s health. Schedule a free basement inspection by using the contact form or by calling (888) 768-2583. Our expert inspectors have years in the basement waterproofing industry and will determine the best plan of action for you. You will also receive a free estimate.

You’re protected with a lifetime transferable warranty against water seepage in treated areas of your basement. We are trusted basement waterproofing specialists helping homeowners in Maryland, Washington DC, northern Virginia, the easter panhandle of West Virginia, and parts of Delaware.

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