Effective waterproofing is essential in protecting your basement and everything in it in case of an accident. Everything from floods to snowfall to just condensation can cause long-term damage that is hard to undo, even with professional cleaning services. A basement flood can cause thousands of dollars in damage and many basement waterproofing companies have emerged as a result, helping people keep both their house and daily habits in proper shape. If you’ve had a basement flood in the past or are trying to prevent them, keep reading to learn more about this common issue and what you can do about it.
Water Damage And Statistics
Did you know the average water damage insurance claim in 2012 was almost $5,000? Water damage is one of the most common forms of home damage, with as many as 23% of home owner properties suffering from it in the United States. Just drying a flooded basement can cause anywhere from $500 to $10,000, even higher, depending on basement size and depth of flooding. Effective waterproofing and erosion control methods are generally preventative as they keep your furniture, storage and treasures safe while saving you money (and a lot of effort) in the long-term.
Where Do I Start?
One of the most important tips is to keep indoor humidity below 60% on average, with the ideal being between 30% and 50%. Relative humidity prevents the formation of mold, which not only damages furniture but can cause breathing problems for those with allergies or asthma. It’s also important to replace sump pumps in your basement if they’re over ten years old, as weakened integrity can lead way to flooding or improper water filtering. Downspouts must be cleaned regularly and checked to make sure they direct water at least ten feet away from the foundation at all times. Foundation damage is often caused by drainage issues and can easily be prevented with regular upkeep. What are you going to do now to prevent water damage to your belongings in the future?