Waterproofing your basement is a good idea if you are experiencing problems with dampness, mold and mildew. If you smell a strong musty smell whenever you go down into your basement, it is often an indication of a water problem. If you ignore this early warning sign, eventually, over time, it can become worse and lead to actual water in the basement.

The first thing you need to do is determine the source of the dampness or water. One easy trick is to tape a large piece of aluminum foil to each basement wall and leave it up for at least 24 hours. Then, the next day, check it for signs of condensation. If the dampness on the outside of the foil, it signifies you have a high humidity level in the basement.

When the air reaches the cooler basement foundation walls, it is cooled and condensation forms. The easy fix for humidity problems is to get a humidifier and use it to remove the excess humidity from the basement.

On the other hand, if you find condensation under the foil, it means the water is being forced through the walls due to hydrostatic pressure and could be the result of rising and falling groundwater levels or poor drainage around the exterior of the home. In this case, you will want to get your basement walls waterproofed by a qualified plumber and drain cleaning service in Mississauga, like us, here at My Precise Plumbing.

Why Use a Professional?

Granted, there are DIY products on the market but these do not necessary address the actual cause of the dampness and water in your basement. Most DIY solutions are essentially a Band-Aid and fail to fully identify the source of the problem so it can be resolved properly. For instance, one DIY solution some people try are those “coatings” they apply to their basement walls on the interior of the home.

While this stops the dampness from forming on the walls, water could start accumulating inside the cement or cinder blocks that support the home. Eventually, the water will build up enough hydrostatic pressure and force itself through the coating, creating an even bigger mess.

Furthermore, the types of solutions that will work best for your home can vary based upon the type of water problem you are experiencing. It is for these reasons you should obtain a professional opinion. The most effective solution to preventing water and dampness from getting into your basement is to have the exterior foundation walls waterproofed.

In cases where the foundation is not easily accessible, the next option is interior waterproofing. With our detailed interior water heater, we provide a complete solution for addressing the water problem, ensuring it drains away correctly, and prevents damaging the foundation of your home.

For more information about waterproofing your basement, or to obtain a free quote, please feel free to contact My Precise Plumbing at (647) 878-9293 today!