Why Waterproofing is a Must!

Upon the formal pre-purchase inspection of my home, I was informed that the basement ‘may get a little damp.’ In actuality, it turned out there was ‘seepage’, where water seeps from the ground into your basement, damaging the foundation and interior. I noticed very slight mildew smell. However, I really loved the house, and I was willing to make any necessary repairs, including waterproofing. I was not afraid of a little mildew! Water damage was not on my list of worries at the time! I was buying a new house! I knew hiring a professional to come and do the waterproofing would be pricey, so I put it off. Can we say procrastination?

Fast forward six months. Picture me, pregnant, standing in the middle of the basement, ankle deep in dirty water, fighting to gain control of the hose of a huge industrial wet vacuum. As if this was not bad enough, I had to drag this monstrosity across the length of the house, (wheels don’t roll well in water) and pour it down the sump ‘hole’. I later learned this was where a ‘working’ sump pump should have been. So with that image fresh in your mind, I am going to tell you why waterproofing your basement is so important.

Water damage left behind after an event like this, is not merely just an annoyance, it can be dangerous to your health. If you take care of the waterproofing before problems arise, you can avoid having to clean up a huge mess, and steer clear of the disgusting effects of water damage.

Once materials are wet, they become a breeding ground for mold and bacteria. It takes only 24 hours for mold to start growing! These microorganisms grow deep in soaked materials, such as deep under the carpet padding, on and in sheetrock, and mold does ugly, ugly, things to wood. Breathing in mold spores can and will make you sick! There are various symptoms of mold exposure, including eye irritation, shortness of breath, running nose and an overall feeling of illness. These symptoms exaggerate both allergies and asthma. There are many different types of mold, some more toxic than others. Waterproofing will stop this process before it even has the chance to start.

You can be in for some major electrical problems too. Electrical problems are obviously dangerous, but expensive as well. Hopefully your homeowners insurance will cover the clean up. Unfortunately in a case like mine, water damage caused by ‘seepage’ is not covered, because it could have been prevented with maintenance. I had to go the do it yourself route after the damage was done. From experience I can tell you, investing in waterproofing is not something you should put off. Never take ‘a little dampness’ for granted. If you suspect that you need to invest in waterproofing your home, do so before the damage is done. Whether you hire a professional to do the waterproofing, or you do it yourself, just get it done! Even if you if are like me, and the thought of spending money on something that ‘isn’t broke yet’ makes you anxious, it is nothing compared to the effects and expenses of cleaning up mold and water damage.