Basements, which are partially or fully located underground, are prone to flooding and water damage. However, water damage is not a necessary conclusion when you have a basement. You can take steps to keep the water out of your basement.
Way #1: Add a Sump Pump
One of the first things you should do if you have a basement is to add a sump pump. A sump pump is designed to collect any water that gets into your basement, and take that water, and pump it outside without allowing the water to create any more damage to your space.
A sump pump can be expensive to install in a basement that is already made, as you are going to have to dig a pole to put the sump pump into and add the plumbing that will pump the water out of your home.
If you are building a new home, it is more affordable to include a sump pump from the start, when you are building your home and can include the sump pump as part of the original installation process.
In fact, the building code in most states now requires you to include a sump pump, making it a good addition to your basement.
Way #2: Seal Up Your Foundation
Second, you need to seal up your foundation. You can seal up your foundation on both the outside of your home and inside of your basement.
There are different types of sealants you can use based on the composition of your basement and foundation. There are special sealants you can use to seal up any cracks in your foundation and basement walls that are specifically designed to keep moisture from leaking into your basement.
A sealant can be a great way to deal with cracks that already exist in your basement and foundation.
Way #3: Add a Waterproof Coating
Third, you can add a waterproof coating to your basement. You will want to use a concrete waterproof coating on your basement and foundation.
A concrete waterproof coating will increase the overall strength of your basement and foundation, helping to keep out moisture, and preventing the build-up of condensation in your basement.
The coating is applied like paint to your walls. In fact, once the coating is dry, you can even paint over it, allowing you to personalize the look and feel of your foundation and basement while keeping everything waterproof.
Adding a sump pump, sealing up your foundation and basement walls, and adding a cement waterproof coating to your foundation and basement walls are just three of the many steps you can take to ensure your basement doesn't get flooded or damaged by water.
For more information on basement waterproofing, contact J.A. Kilby Enterprises Inc.