Your home requires constant upkeep to function at its best. Keeping you safe from roaming eyes, shielding you from the rain and keeping you warm in spite of the cold are but a few functions of a strong household, but there’s another oft neglected element in the homeowner’s repair repertoire. Your basement, normally used for general storage or housing energy, can become prone to cracks and leaks if not regularly attended to. Should you go too long without a once over you could even find yourself at risk for a flood! A basement waterpoofing company is the first tool in your arsenal of avoiding potential hazards, starting with basement crack repair and ending with proactive habits throughout the year.
What Are Flood Hazards?
While floods can seem limited to tropical climates and particularly bad weather, you can create your very own by neglecting to check your basement for wear and tear on a frequent basis. According to the National Flood Insurance Program (also known as the NFIP), floods have become the number one disaster in America, with well over $3 billion made in insurance and damage claims every single year. The year 2013 saw water damage accounting for over 25% of insurance loss claims, meaning your basement could be ripe for a similar occurrence if you don’t have it inspected by your local basement waterproofing company soon!
How Do Leaks Happen?
Cracks and leaks can occur for a variety of reasons. One of the most common is due to cold, as the winter months can put stress on the structure of your basement and cause it to crack in unexpected places. Even if you’re fortunate enough to avoid a flood, unchecked condensation and moisture can encourage the growth of nasty mold. Mold is a health hazard that shouldn’t be breathed in whatsoever, with a particular risk inherent for people who suffer from asthma, bronchitis or seasonal allergies. Not all basements have the luxury of large windows to clear out the air, so consider investing in an air filter to clear up dust and discourage mold build-up.
What Can I Do To Prevent Them?
Calling a professional for basement foundation repair will protect you from little issues that become big problems down the road. If you’re the victim of a flood, don’t fret! Remove organic items, such as bedding or furniture, that have been damaged and lay them outside to dry for at least 48 hours. If they’re still wet it’s recommend you throw them out in light of mold. Your home should be dried as quickly as possible within the following day or two, which is made easier with a pedestal or submersible pump. This technology lasts anywhere from 15 to 30 years and is prime for getting rid of a large amount of water in a short period of time. At the end of the day, a basement waterproofing company professional will be instrumental in helping you avoid these devastating issues.
Who Should I Contact?
When it comes to patching up water leaks, exposing weak foundations and repairing cracks, a basement waterproofing company will give you all you need and then some. Professionals can pinpoint potential errors in the walls and floors of your basement, using everything from foundation sealing to home waterproofing methods to discourage flooding and stop problems before they arise. The average cost for repair depends heavily on the damage already done, which means you’re better off being proactive and contacting a foundation repair professional as soon as possible. Just like a little crack can become a big flood, so can a little care prevent an enormous problem!