Water damage is one of the leading causes of structural damage to homes and offices in the United States. The cost of repairs can amount to thousands of dollars depending on the extent of the damage and the types of materials that need to be replaced. It’s also one of the major causes of home insurance claims each year. In fact, two out of every 10 insured homeowners make water damage related claims every year. Many of these claims could be prevented with proactive basement waterproofing.
When we hear of water damage, it is easy to imagine a sudden storm ruining a house. However, water damage often occurs gradually over time, and the causes are much more subtle. Basements are often the first and most affected rooms when there are water leaks. To prevent damage to your property and the repair costs that follow, here are some signs you should look out for to know when it’s time to call an expert offering exterior waterproofing services.
1. BASEMENT SMELLS
Generally, basements have a different feel to the rest of the house. However, it should not have bad smells. Any odors in your basement may be an indication of excess moisture which, in turn, facilitates the growth of mold and mildew. This may require professional cleaning and basement repair and waterproofing.
You should also be wary of the smell of sewage in your yard as it may also be an indication of trouble in your basement.
2. STAINS
Stains are a simple but clear indication you may need exterior waterproofing services. Any time you notice water marks or stains on the walls, floors, and carpets in your basement or the immediate upper floor, you should contact exterior waterproofing services to check for signs of a leak.
3. PERSISTENT ALLERGIES OR FLU
If you develop sudden allergies or a flu you can’t seem to shake, the basement may be the culprit. Excess moisture encourages the growth of mold and mildew, common allergens that trigger a reaction in many people. In some cases, the mold can be toxic.
Molds can make a house inhabitable for people with allergies due to allergic reactions such as:
- Persistent coughing or sneezing
- Watery eyes
- Itchy nose, eyes, and throat
- Stuffy or runny nose
People are affected differently, and at times the effects could be lethal. It is highly recommended that you seek medical help. After you take care of your health, you should also seek out exterior waterproofing services anytime you notice any unexplained humidity and excess moisture in the house.
4. WATER POOLING OUTSIDE THE HOUSE
When water from gutters or leaky pipes does not drain out of your property properly, your basement becomes vulnerable. A little surface water may not seem like a cause for concern, but if it does not drain well, it will eventually find its way to the basement and erode the foundation.
Having plants near the house can also damage the foundation. To prevent their roots from causing structural damage to the foundation, they should be planted a minimum of two feet from the house.
5. SWELLING DOORS, WALLS, OR FLOORS
Wood is a hygroscopic material, meaning that it can absorb water. That’s why an increase in moisture and humidity can be noticed on wooden surfaces, either through staining or swelling. As a result, opening and closing doors may become problematic.
When wooden walls or floors are constantly exposed to moisture, they may begin to rot. As a result, they may become soft, and wall repair will be needed to stabilize the structure. However, before any repairs are done, it is advisable to have an exterior waterproofing company assess the walls and waterproof them. This will prevent similar damage from occurring again in the future.
CONTACT GUARDIAN FOUNDATION REPAIRS TODAY
Water damage is very common and can cause significant problems if not caught early. As such, homeowners need to know how to spot potential threats and contact a company that offers exterior waterproofing services before the damage done becomes irreversible. When you’re ready to better protect your home, rely on Guardian Foundation Repairs to stop water in its tracks.