Many homeowners overlook what’s really going on in their basement, especially if it’s an area primarily used for storage. It’s an area of the home that can become out of mind when it’s out of sight.
The truth is that your basement holds the potential to become damaged in costly ways. The biggest culprit of all is water damage in your basement, which can result from a number of problems.
At Armored Basement, our job is to provide the exact waterproofing solutions your basement needs. The question you may have is, “Is waterproofing my basement really that important?”
The answer is always yes and we’re here to explain why. Read on for three hidden dangers of water damage in basements.
1. The Spread of Structural Damage
One of the biggest dangers of water damage in your basement is spreading structural damage. It doesn’t take a massive flood to set these issues in motion. In fact, even a small but constant amount of water and humidity can have an impact on some important elements in your home.
Cracks and Other Damage to the Foundation
Your basement sits right on top of your foundation, one of the most expensive and necessary structural elements in your home. Even the presence of humidity can start to create cracks and decay in the concrete, particularly if your basement undergoes temperature fluctuations. Water in and around the basement can also cause erosion of the soil supporting your foundation, causing the foundation to sit at an uneven angle.
Spreading Damage to Other Areas of the Home
It can take quite a bit of time to notice damage in the foundation in your home. Unfortunately, the longer that damage exists, the more likely it is that the damage will spread to other areas of the home. A damaged foundation can cause walls to buckle, floors to slant, and can even impact your ability to open and close your windows.
2. The Threat of Electrical Problems
If there’s one thing we all remember from science class, it’s that water and electricity don’t mix well. If your basement is prone to flooding, you’re likely to see some serious electrical problems down the road. In the best-case scenario, you’re looking at an expensive renovation and in the worst-case scenario, you’re at risk of electrocution.
Best-Case Scenario: Your Electricity No Longer Works
When water gets into your electrical wiring, a number of things can occur. The most likely is that the electrical wiring will start to corrode, disrupting the connections between the source of electricity and your outlets, lighting, and appliances. The only way to fix this kind of issue is to have the wiring replaced, which is an expensive and disruptive job.
Note that your wiring isn’t the only thing at risk. If water starts to travel through your electrical system, it could cause damage to your appliances, as well.
Worst-Case Scenario: You’re Risking Electrocution and Fire Hazards
It’s not uncommon to find circuit breakers and electrical panels located in the basement. The last place you want to have water damage is anywhere near these components!
Any amount of water damage to your electrical system can present the risk of electrocution or even start a fire. The risk is much higher when water damage impacts your electrical panels.
3. The Presence of Health Hazards
Some of the dangers of water damage in your basement don’t make themselves known right away. In fact, you may begin to experience health issues without realizing that a water-damaged basement is at fault. Waterproofing your basement is a great way to protect your indoor air quality and decrease the risk of health hazards in the home.
Mold and Humidity
Whether you’ve got standing water in your basement or enough of a leak to create high humidity levels, you’ve got a perfect environment for mold growth. Not only can certain types of mold start to eat through the structural elements of your basement but it can also produce some nasty spores.
Why are mold spores in your basement worth preventing? Mold spores are airborne and can spread all throughout your home through your HVAC system. Mold spores have been linked to increased respiratory issues, especially for those with asthma or allergies.
Mold remediation often requires the help of specialists. It’s almost always easier and more cost-effective to prevent mold growth than to eradicate it.
A Rise in Household Pests
Believe it or not, one potential side effect of water damage issues in the basement is a rise in household pests. No, they’re not getting washed in with the excess water! Instead, they’re finding their way in through cracks created by moisture and water damage.
If you’ve ever dealt with pest control before, you probably know that even pests like mice and rats can slip into your house through tiny spaces. If your basement isn’t sealed off from the threat of water, it’s potentially an open door for all kinds of pests, from rodents to insects to snakes. Spotting our furry (and scaly) friends in the wild is great fun, but sharing our home with them isn’t!
Protect Your Home and Your Health from Water Damage in Your Basement
It’s easy to overlook the many dangers presented by water damage in your basement. However, it’s time to face those dangers head-on and take the preventative approach! Waterproofing your basement is the best way to protect your home and your health from those sneaky, unexpected basement problems.
What do you say, Baltimore? Are you ready to waterproof your basement and secure your home from the threat of water damage? If so, Armored Basement is here to help.
To find out more about our pricing and availability or schedule an appointment, contact us today.
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