Protect Your Home with these Proven Basement Waterproofing Solutions

Author: putong13 | Posted: 16.02.2012

Although Seattle's most common nickname is "The Emerald City," it is also often referred to as "Rain City" or "The Rainy City." Why? Seattle typically receives heavy amounts of rainfall from October to April. In fact, studies show the city accumulates the largest average amount of rainfall of any major U.S. city during the month of November.

For this reason, it is vital that Seattle homeowners employ necessary basement waterproofing techniques. It is very easy for rainwater or melted snow to enter the lower levels of one's home if it is left unprotected and unsealed. Continue reading to learn how to protect your home with proven Seattle basement waterproofing solutions.

Sealing and Crack Repair

The first step in basement waterproofing is to fully seal the space so that groundwater cannot leak into your home. A certified Seattle basement waterproofing contractor can fully seal your leaky basement in just a few hours. He or she can also repair leaky floor/wall cracks, as well as leaky basement windows.

Interior Perimeter Drainage System

A interior perimeter drainage system is a great way to protect your home from water damage, flooding, and leaky walls and floors. This common Seattle basement waterproofing solution is installed along the entire perimeter of the basement. It collects accumulated groundwater in your basement and drains it outside via a sump pump. An interior perimeter drainage system is extremely effective and costs about half the price of an exterior system. Plus, it will not require outdoor excavation or damage to your yard, making it a very popular Seattle basement waterproofing solution.

As with most home improvement systems, regular maintenance is required. A certified Seattle basement waterproofing contractor should inspect your interior perimeter drainage system and sump pump annually to ensure that they are working properly and efficiently. He or she may carefully inspect the float switch, intake valve, impeller, sump pump liner, discharge line, and more.

Battery Backup Sump Pump

A sump pump is a key ingredient to any basement waterproofing system; however, having a battery backup pump is also extremely important. That's because a sump pump requires electricity to operate. With a battery backup pump, you can rest assured that your basement will remain dry and healthy even if you lose power during a heavy rain or snow storm. Think of it as not only a backup plan, but also priceless peace of mind.

Self-Draining Dehumidifier

As previously mentioned, Seattle has a very wet climate for much of the year. That dampness can make its way inside of a home and cause mold and mildew growth. These fast-growing fungi can cause serious health issues such as asthma, allergies, headaches, and fatigue. If your Seattle basement has a damp, musty smell, a popular basement waterproofing solution is a self-draining dehumidifier. A dehumidifier works to remove moisture from the air, with the goal of reducing basement humidity to less than 60%. Doing so will stop mold and mildew growth, and create a drier, healthier living environment for your family and pets.

About Author:
Aqueous Basement Systems specializes in basement waterproofing in Seattle, WA and other surrounding areas. Visit them online for a free basement waterproofing estimate.

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