So many homeowners think that water in the basement is completely normal – but it’s not! In fact, having water in your basement can be really bad for your home and your health. Eventually, it’s going to cause major problems that extend beyond just damaged items.

Waterproofing the basement is the only sure way to help prevent water-related issues and protect your home from the side effects of water making its way into places it isn’t welcome! If you’re wondering why waterproofing the basement is a good idea, check out these top reasons to consider it.

Basement Waterproofing Prevents Flooding

One of the top reasons to consider basement waterproofing is its ability to prevent flooding in the basement. There are many different ways to waterproof. In some cases, you may just need to fill and seal cracks. In other instances, it may be necessary to consider a sump pump or an interior drainage system.

A professional waterproofing company can assess your needs and make recommendations. The total system and home should be considered, including things like guttering and downspouts, exterior sloping or drainage, and interior needs as well.

Take steps to avoid flooding in the basement, rather than letting the basement flood over and over again. This flooding can affect your structure and leave behind many types of damage.

Prevent Foundation and Structure Damage

When water repeatedly makes its way into the basement, it leaves a little bit of damage at a time. And as water is allowed to come in over and over again, those damages will certainly add up. You will start to notice things like cracks in the foundation. And cracks can escalate into bigger issues. If left untreated, eventually you might be facing foundation and structure problems that are incredibly costly and put your home at risk.

When water is coming into the basement, it’s a major problem. And it’s going to cause you major problems if not resolved. The foundation and structure are what allow you to enjoy your home safely. But that could change if water infiltration isn’t addressed.

Cracks in the walls or foundation are early warning signs of issues with your foundation or structure. You should get those cracks repaired to prevent further issues.

Molds and Odors

Have you ever walked into the basement and thought it smelled damp or musty? It’s an unpleasant odor and it makes people want to stay far away from the area. But those odors are your signal that you need to take action.

When water is coming into the basement, it leaves behind excess moisture that causes dampness. Then you have odors that are caused by dampness, mold, mildew, and other water-related issues. Mold is a huge risk when there is moisture hanging out in the basement. When you don’t incorporate basement waterproofing, you’re likely feeding mold and encouraging it to grow.

Mold and mildew are major issues that can cause extensive damage. They can also lead to major health issues within the household. It’s simply not worth the risk.

Mold and odors usually come together. But you can also have odors from mustiness because of wet and damp things in the basement. Excessive moisture in the air leads to odors and mold, so get it taken care of!

If you waterproof the basement, you’re far less likely to deal with any of these problems.

Manage Utility Expenses

Did you know that a basement without waterproofing in place could make your utility costs go up? We know that utilities and the costs of everything are steadily rising, so why not take steps to help keep them in check?

If the utility bill seems unusually high or appears to be rising without explanation, it might be the basement causing those increases. Water and moisture in your basement make it harder for your systems to keep up and work effectively. It makes the basement cold in the winter and will make them damp and humid in the summer.

Your units can only do so much and they may work harder to cool or heat. They are less efficient because the basement isn’t protected. Taking steps to waterproof will most likely help with these energy costs.

Improve Your Home Value

Finally, waterproofing the basement is a great way to increase your home’s value. The fact that your basement is waterproofed and protected will provide an advantage should you ever need or want to sell the house.

Not only will the basement be in better shape, but any potential new owners will be impressed with this initiative and your home value will be so much better. And if you don’t plan to sell anytime soon, you can still take pride in the improved value of your home.

Think of it as protecting your home so that you have a steady and reliable foundation for many years to come!

Work with a Professional for Basement Waterproofing

Waterproofing the basement is meant to help protect your home, your health, and your very structure. The challenge is that there isn’t always a one-size-fits-all answer. Can you use a sealant? Sure. But what if that isn’t really what your home needs?

Working with a professional on waterproofing the basement is the best way to ensure that you get waterproofing done correctly and to provide the solutions that are the best for keeping your home and basement dry. They can look at your entire structure and make appropriate recommendations, from gutters to fixing cracks to interior drainage.