Water damage is a serious problem that every homeowner must make efforts to prevent. Over the years, water damage has resulted in losses worth millions of dollars. However, water damage can be prevented by effective basement waterproofing.
Basement waterproofing is an essential project that determines the integrity of the building’s foundation. Besides, basement waterproofing is the perfect known solution to protecting the home from water damage.
Here are the 5 signs of basement water damage:
- Standing Water
There is no other sign that exposes a home that lacks basement waterproofing other than standing water. When you have water pooling around or in your basement, that tells you that you either did not complete the basement waterproofing or it has been compromised. Standing water in your basement it home is one sign of imminent water damage in your home.
- Cracks
Basement water damage can be discovered throughout cracks in your basement, foundation, window seals, walls, or the floors. Water can seep into your home or foundation through these cracks. As a result of heat and cold, the basement structure may be forced to crack (due to expansion and contraction of the concrete) over time. Look for cracks in your basement and other areas mentioned and fix them as soon as possible.
- Damages or Deterioration
Another sign that your basement waterproofing has been compromised is the evidence of water damage in the basement area. When the walls of the building start to crumble, the wood becomes rotten, and wallpaper or paint starts to peel off or flakes, those are signs of water damage due to exposure to excess humidity or standing water in the basement. Do not think those items damaged because of age; their damage may have been caused by water.
- Stains
Stains and discolouration of the floors and walls are a sign of basement water damage. When water stands in the basement for some time, after evaporation, it leaves stains and discoloration of the standing spot behind. Look for yellowish-brown colour on the paneling, carpeting, floors and walls of your basement. If they look discolored, then the chances are high that there was water damage in your basement.
- Efflorescence
Look around the foundation walls and basement surrounding for chalking white powdery coating. Consistent exposure to moisture produces this white powdery deposit. It is a sign of basement water damage that resulted from poor basement waterproofing. Efflorescence is not a health threat but an indication that water is entering your basement. As soon as you see this chalky deposit, know that you need basement waterproofing as fast as you can get it done.