Water damage from flooding is something no homeowner in the Greater Toronto Area wants to handle. The best way to prevent such damage is by waterproofing your basement.
Basement waterproofing protects your walls, flooring, and personal belongings. As well it prevents damage to the foundation of your home.
The following blog provides helpful advice on basement waterproofing. As well we discuss what can go wrong if you don’t take the time to properly waterproof your crawl space or basement.
What Could Go Wrong Without Basement Waterproofing
If you don’t take the time to waterproof Toronto for your basement or crawlspace, major damage occurs to your home’s foundation. In addition, humidity and other moisture issues incur the following damage to your basement and other areas of your home:
- Rodent And Insect Infestation
Rodents and bugs are attracted to moisture. Water bugs, fruit flies, and other insects are often found in wet spots of dark areas such as basements, attics, and crawl spaces. As well, rodents and mice nest in these areas. Eventually, they find their way into other rooms of your home, such as kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and other rooms that are prone to humidity. This leads to infestations, which are a serious issue.,
- Mold & Mildew
Humidity is a breeding ground for mold and mildew. This leads to serious health issues such as itchy and irritated eyes, breathing issues, skin irritation, etc. Black mold is especially dangerous.
- Unpleasant Odors
Still water from flooding and leaking pipes not only leads to the growth of mold and mildew. It also creates foul-smelling odorous gasses that cling to your walls, carpet, furniture, clothing, and other belongings. These or.
- Structural Damage To Your Home
As previously mentioned, water damage from leaks and flooding causes major damage to your home’s foundation. Excessive water build-up in the walls causes hydrostatic pressure. This causes your home’s foundation to lean, bow, tip, and eventually collapse.
How To Know When Your Basement Waterproofing Needs Repair
- The most obvious sign that you need to waterproof your basement is water damage, leaks, and flooding.
- Cracks in the basement or crawl space walls indicate that waterproofing is imminent.
- It is time to waterproof your basement or crawl space if the walls are bulging, buckling, leaning, or otherwise damaged.
- Issues with your roofing, such as uneven or damaged roofing, are possible signs of damage to the foundation due to water damage.
Tips For Basement Waterproofing
- Install A Sump Pump
Installing a sump pump system is the best way to prevent water damage and flooding in your home. Most sump pumps operate on both electricity and battery. Be sure to inspect your pump regularly to ensure that it is working efficiently. This system pumps the water away from your home to an outside source.
- Properly Seal Cracks And Holes In The Basement Walls
If you notice any holes or cracks in your crawl space or basement walls, it is imperative to repair them as soon as possible. Apply a high-quality waterproof sealant to the damaged areas to prevent leaks and water damage from rain and melting snow.
- Apply Caulking To All Doors, Windows, And Window Wells
Another way to waterproof your basement is to apply high-grade caulking to any windows as well as window wells in the area. Don’t forget to seal the doors as well.
- Clean Your Gutters And Drainpipes As Needed
Clogged gutters and drain pipes are the leading causes of leaks, flooding, and water damage. Be sure to regularly clean out the drainage system as well as your gutters to prevent such issues, especially after heavy rainfall.
- Professional Basement Waterproofing
Professional waterproofing is the best way to protect your home from flooding and water damage. Taking the above steps does help prevent damage. However, a professional team knows the ins and outs of basement waterproofing. They assess the area and advise you as to what steps are needed to best protect your home. Having your crawl space or basement waterproofed by a professional is well worth the extra cost. The extra money upfront saves a large sum of money by protecting your home from costly repairs from flooding, water damage, and even foundational damage to your Toronto area home.
