Your home can become susceptible to damage from weather conditions, pests, and other outside elements. And as a homeowner you are constantly battling with these factors to keep your home protected and in good condition and repairing and remedying problems when they occur. Moisture intrusion is a big problem in homes around the country, especially in basements, as it causes damage to furnishings and also leads to mold and mildew growth with related health problems. Here are some recommendations to help you keep your basement dry and free of moisture problems.
Add Waterproof Flooring
In your basement there is an increased potential for moisture to seep in through the foundation walls, along the flooring slab, and in through interior water lines and drainage pipes. Because your basement is essentially downward from all other areas in the home and outside, it can become exposed to moisture from the natural force of gravity. For this reason it is a good idea to get basement waterproofing on the finishing of your basement space.
There are many types of waterproof flooring, depending on the look and comfort you want. For example, if you want the look of hardwood flooring, opt for an engineered hardwood flooring, laminate flooring, or a bamboo flooring. You can also choose tile for the basement or if you want carpeting, make sure you install a waterproof padding below the carpets. Then, if you do have a moisture problem, the padding won't absorb the moisture and you will be able to extract water from the carpets to dry them out without mold growth.
Use Professional Waterproofing Service
As a great method of prevention, you can handle any moisture intrusion problems in your basement to prevent them from happening. Then if you do have a moisture problem it would likely be from an interior water source.
To keep moisture out of your basement, talk to a professional about installing an exterior coating on your home's foundation walls. They can also apply an interior treatment to the interior of the unfinished walls and seal up any cracks and other damage that could allow moisture to penetrate into your basement. Additionally, a French drain in the floor of your basement is helpful to collect water as it enters your basement so it can be pumped from your home. Your waterproof professional can talk to you about these options to help you find the right one for your home and your moisture problems.
