One of the most likely places for water to enter your home is in your basement. For a basement that isn't effectively waterproofed, heavy rainfall can lead to a flooded basement. The phrase âflooded basementâ conjures up an image of waist-deep water and thousands of dollars in damages. However, this worst-case scenario put aside, even small amounts of water leaking into your basement can cause some water damage, which can be a real pain for homeowners.
Here are some tips to prevent your basement from leaks and spare yourself from dealing with the stress of repairing water damage.
Look for Cracks in Your Foundation
Foundation cracks can be hard to see with the naked eye, but if you notice signs that water has leaked into your basement like puddles of water or a damp smell, it's time to do a thorough inspection of your foundation. Notice where the puddles of water have collected and inspect the foundation above them for any visible cracks where the water has been flowing from. You may be able to patch some of these cracks yourself as a temporary fix before contacting a waterproofing professional.
Clear Your Gutters
Clogged gutters: a common cause of a myriad of water damage problems. Gutters that are filled with leaves, sticks, and dirt have a harder time carrying water to your downspout and away from your home. This can cause water to slosh over the sides of your home and land too close to your foundation, and if your basement has cracks or weak spots, the water will find its way inside. Next time you're doing some household chores, take some time to grab a ladder and clean out your gutters.
Check Your Landscaping
You may not think of it, but the soil located near your foundation plays a big role in directing water away from your home. Your soil should be arranged with a slope of at least 1/4 inch per foot to allow maximum water to flow toward your yard, not your foundation. If your soil isn't sloped properly, water is more likely to find its way into your basement, especially when paired with another issue like clogged gutters.
Contact NV Waterproofing for Expert Basement Waterproofing!
The most effective way to prevent leaks in your basement is to hire a professional who can offer long lasting basement waterproofing services. NV Waterproofing is a contractor providing all-inclusive waterproofing services in Northern Virginia and the surrounding areas. We can help you keep your basement nice and dry with our variety of services, from our wet basement solutions, wet yard solutions, structural solutions, and more! Our waterproofing experts are knowledgeable, professional, efficient, and here to serve you.
Don't end up with the dreaded basement flood. Contact us today at 1-571-200-1986 for expert waterproofing services!
