Flooding is a devastating problem caused by a few simple things like heavy rainfall or even accelerated melting of snow. At the first sign of dampness in your basement you should call in a professional to inspect the area to prevent damages to your wallet and structural integrity of your home. When your basement is damp/wet it may deteriorate the foundation of your house which can be extremely dangerous. The best way to stop this problem before it happens is to waterproof your basement. This step is not only a preventative measure for homeowners but also could increase the value of your home and allow you to use your basement as a secondary living space or even for safe storage. Waterproofing a space also protects you from harmful mold or mildew growth which can cause flu-like symptoms if you’re unaware of the problem. Some warning signs are:
- increased humidity
- increased smell
- dandruff-like wall and floor efflorescence
Not only will mold and mildew affect the people living in the house negatively but it will also cause staining and damage paint, wood and drywall.
Waterproofing is a significantly less expensive option than allowing water to penetrate your basement, ruin personal belongings as well as interior finishes. In fact, the city of Toronto offers a rebate for flood protection services, which will be very helpful in affording a solution to your flooding issues. If you are looking to sell your house and you have a leaky basement it can drastically decrease the value of your house or even completely turn buyers away. Flooding is a problem that can be solved before it happens and the best practice for all homeowners is to contact a certified plumber to inspect their basement. If water gets in once it will get in again and while the problem might be undetected, it can be stopped early.
