When your home is destroyed by a flood, termites, hail, or even a wildfire, you initially feel out of place and hopeless. The place that was once your sanctuary is now unsafe and unlivable, and you're not sure what to do first. Actually, your first call should be to a home restoration company. They have the equipment to dry out your home, assess the damage, and then make the necessary repairs to make it livable again. It may not be tomorrow, and it may not be next week — but you'll have your home back. Learn more about restoration and home repairs by reading the articles we've collected on this website.
Due to a basement wall being located at the lowest level of a house, it is an easy target for water to seep in from the outside. Rainwater can easily sit against the exterior area of the basement wall, especially if your yard isn't leveled out the right way. Water seepage through the wall can seem like a minor problem, but it can actually lead to a substantial amount of damage to your house. Keep in mind that the moisture and humidity that the water makes can expand to the upper levels of your home, which causes mold and mildew in most cases. You must act fast if water has been seeping through your basement wall, and steps can be taken to prevent it in the future as well.
French Drains for the Exterior Walls
Paying some attention to the exterior of your basement walls is important, as it is where water is seeping inside. French drain installation is one of the options that you have as a method of preventing the problem. The drains will make it difficult for rainwater to accumulate on the exterior basement walls by creating an area for it to fall into. You can get the drains installed along the perimeter of the exterior basement walls, but also in various areas of your yard for greater drainage. Make sure professional installation is done if you don't know how to install the drains, as they might not function right if improperly installed.
Cracks Can Usually Be Sealed Up
If you are not already aware of it, the basement walls are larger than you actually see. A portion of the walls is located inside the ground, which is why excavation is sometimes done when waterproofing a basement. Cracks that are located in any area of a wall can usually be sealed up to prevent water seepage. Ideally, you should hire a professional to find out if there are any cracks in the walls that are located within the ground. Sealant for handling such a task can be purchased and applied on your own, but the type used by professionals will provide the highest level of protection against water.
Waterproof Paint for the Walls
After your basement walls have been repaired, applying waterproof paint is a good idea. Paint will not only make the walls more appealing but also create more protection against water seepage. Purchase paint that is designed for waterproofing basement walls, or ask a professional for advice on making the best choice.
To learn more, contact a waterproofing service in your area.