4 Reasons You Should Waterproof Your Basement This Winter

A damp and musty basement can decrease the value of your property significantly. But what many people don’t know is that it also poses a health hazard.

A moisture-laden basement is a breeding ground for problems—problems that could result in substantial repairs later on.

The good news is that they can be easily prevented. Here are four reasons why you should waterproof your basement this winter.

Seal Before the Arrival of Spring

Winter is a great time to seal your basement. Low outdoor humidity, coupled with the interior heating equipment in your basement—such as the furnace—makes the concrete dry. This makes it easier to perform repairs and waterproofing.

With spring also comes rain and snowmelt, which can damage your basement further if it isn’t waterproofed.

Rid Yourself of Radon

Radon is a carcinogenic gas that forms when radioactive materials in the earth break down. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, it is the second leading cause of lung cancer. It flows naturally through the cracks and holes in the ground.

While it isn’t a threat outdoors, it can become dangerous if it gets trapped inside houses and buildings. The concentration of radon indoors can increase to dangerous levels over time, and it must be dealt with.

Sealing your basement is a necessary step in preventing your house from radon contamination.

Mold Is a Menace

Mold is a form of fungus that can grow just about anywhere. It thrives in damp and warm environments—which makes your basement an ideal breeding ground.

Moreover, mold may not always be visible. It can grow in cracks and holes in your basement quite discreetly. Mold can trigger health problems such as allergies and asthma in those who are exposed to it—especially those with low immunity.

Treating mold without proper training is dangerous. You may have to hire an expert mold remover first before waterproofing the basement. The good news is that the chances of mold re-emerging after sealing are quite low.

Precautionary Measures Against Cracks

When water seeps into your home’s basement, it can accumulate in cracks. This water exerts pressure in the cracks, causing them to expand. Over time, this causes the foundation of your house to weaken.

It can also cause your walls to start bowing, which compromises the entire structure of your home. Repairs need to be made first. Then, to prevent this from happening again, you’ll have to waterproof the basement.

If you’re looking to get your basement waterproofed, AMN Masonry offers a complete solution. We provide concrete repair and foundation waterproofing in the greater Boston area. 

With over 13 years of experience in restoration, repair, and replacement, we’ve helped hundreds of commercial and residential clients secure their buildings.

For a free estimate, call us at (774) 244-8248 or fill this form.