Does your basement need a little spring clean? During the warmer months, we often venture into our basement and find that the winter has left it neglected or even flooded. In fact, 98% of basements in the US will incur flooding and water damage over a homeowner’s lifetime. Fortunately, the expert team at Foundation Solutions 360 is on hand with expert advice on how to keep your family safe and dry all year round, especially during a volatile Michigan spring.

Inspect The Damage

If you know your home is prone to flooding, it’s advisable to leave your basement free of clutter. When boxes and household items do build up in basements, it’s also harder to spot potential leaks as they occur. So keep the floor clean, or conduct a literal spring clean of your basement. Remove old boxes and unloved items with the ultimate aim to clear up some floor space. 

Once that’s done, inspect the floors, walls, pipes, and windows (if applicable) to check for damage. Signs like cracks, mold, damp smells, dark stains, or warped belongings may indicate there is a leak somewhere in the basement. Cracks and gaps in doors or walls might also lead to pests entering the property. 

Can I Do Anything To Protect My Basement?

If you spot any gaps between door and window seals, you can fill them in with waterproof caulk to stop water from entering. Steps like clearing your gutters of leaves can also stop build-ups of water near the edge of your property.

However, basement waterproofing is the best way to prevent future issues with water damage or leaks. If you’re not sure about waterproofing your basement, our team can offer a free consultation to assess your risk for water damage and provide flexible financing options.

Is Basement Waterproofing Necessary?

Basement waterproofing can help reduce long-term damage in your home. Not waterproofing can lead to a vast variety of risks, including:

  • Long-term structural damage to the property
  • Increased risk of flooding 
  • Allergen and health-jeopardizing growths like mold and mildew
  • Injuries due to slippery surfaces and falls
  • Damage to electrics, risking fire and the health of individuals
  • Contamination if water brings in toxins and pollutes items in the home
  • Unpleasant odors due to dampness and buildup on surfaces like carpets

How Are Basements Waterproofed?

Here are three popular ways of waterproofing basements:

Sump Pumps

Sump pumps are pumps that help remove excess water from areas like a basement through to a safe area, like a storm drain. Sump pumps should also be fitted with backup systems to stop primary failure resulting in flooding. Will a sump pump keep a basement dry? Yes: with an adequate backup system, they will be extremely unlikely to fail, resulting in a usable room in the home.

Vapor Barrier Wall Lining

Bright white wall lining is a form of lining that gives the effect of a paint finish while effectively sealing your wall from external liquids or vapors. It is great for finishing off a basement that has recently been treated for water damage.

Dehumidifiers

Dehumidifiers allow you to reduce the amount of moisture in your basement. Excess water in the air can cause mold, mildew, or dampness. Installing a dehumidifier helps reduce the chances of excess humidity damaging furniture or valuables in your basement.

Keep Your Family Dry This Spring

Spring clean your basement with an investment in basement waterproofing. Our friendly and expert team at Foundation Solutions 360 will be able to help you with all levels of water damage and waterproofing in your basement. Contact us today for your free estimate. We’ll give you an honest assessment of what’s urgent and what can wait till summer.  

Foundation Solutions 360: Michigan’s Trusted Basement Waterproofing Experts

Foundation Solutions 360 has been keeping homes in Michigan and northern Ohio safe, dry, and structurally sound for three generations. We have a comprehensive background in residential construction and a proven record of quality workmanship. Let us provide you with a quick, effective, and affordable basement waterproofing solution to protect your home! Call (855) 532-5360 today for a FREE estimate!