No homeowner wants a leaky, wet basement. And once water is inside your house, it is extremely hard to get it outside where it belongs. In order to prevent the dreaded damp basement in the first place, here are some simple home waterproofing do’s and don’ts to follow.
DO: research different methods of basement waterproofing
Typically, there are three general methods of preventing basement leaks: interior sealants, drainage, and exterior waterproofing. The cause of water damage will vary from home to home, so it is important to look into which technique is best for your specific situation. Simply speaking to a basement waterproofing company will help you come up with the best solution.
DON’T: Let the water sit stagnant in your home.
It is absolutely crucial to clean and dry your home out thoroughly within 24 to 48 hours after flooding. This will prevent mold growth in your home, which can be exceptionally hazardous to your health. It is important to remember that mold can grow and thrive even when you cannot see or smell it, so the quicker your home is dry, the better!
DO: Find out where your leak is coming from.
The first thing you need to do when you find a leak is to determine its source. Is the water seeping through the ground, or is it coming from a broken gutter? Did a pipe burst, or is the water coming from a window? Finding the source is the most important part of waterproofing, as unless you cut off the source permanently it will keep coming back!
DON’T: Use a DIY sealant on your foundation
Many homeowners like to use DIY techniques when they are doing home improvement, but when it comes to home waterproofing you should never cut corners. More often than not, those easy fixes are simply temporary and lead to expensive foundation repairs down the line.
DO: Clean your gutters!
A clean gutter is a happy gutter. When your gutter is bogged down with leaves and debris, it can’t divert water to storm drains. Instead, the water leaks over the sides of the gutter, causing leaks, standing water, and foundation cracks.
DON’T: Plant your plants too close to your foundation.
Your plants should always, always slope away from your foundation. If not, water can enter accidentally. A good rule to follow is to slope your plants at least six inches for every 10 horizontal feet.
DO: Call The Real Seal LLC when you need to make your wet Chicago home dry again!
Our Chicago basement waterproofing company offers full-service home waterproofing solutions that will ensure you have a nice and dry home for this upcoming winter season.
