Do you live in fear every time it rains? It is estimated that in the state of Maryland, there is an average of 59 inches of rain every year. While this might not seem like a lot to the casual observer, for someone with a leaky basement this strikes terror into their heart.
If the issue of water getting into your basement doesn’t alarm you, the thought of mold growing in your basement should. If left unaddressed, a wet basement could turn into a serious health problem for you and your family.
You might be wondering, “are there basement waterproofers near me?” And the answer is yes. At Armored Basement, having creative solutions to your leak issues is our priority. Keep reading to learn our process for taking care of your leaking basement, and how long it should take.
Why Leaks Can Cause a Health Issue
Mold is a serious problem that can impact anyone who comes into contact with it. Mold grows when moisture is trapped in a space for as little as 24 hours and not addressed.
The issue of mold and a damp basement is especially pressing in older homes that had different standards than there are today. In Maryland, the average home age is 43. Although this is a relatively average age for homes in the United States, issues still exist that can blindside you.
Mold can seriously impact your breathing, and can even be toxic. The most common symptoms of being exposed to mold include irritation of the skin, nose, eye, and lungs. However, these symptoms could lead to worse issues as well if left unaddressed.
While you might be able to get temporary relief by cleaning up the mold and putting a dehumidifier in your basement, the root cause of the issue is still not taken care of, which is a leaking basement.
By taking care of the root cause of your mold issue, you are able to save yourself the hassle of cleaning your basement every time it rains, and not have to worry if you or your family are in serious danger from inhaling mold particles.
What Are Some Typical Methods for Waterproofing?
There are a few options when it comes to waterproofing. Each one has its benefits when it comes to sealing your basement off from water.
External
The first option is external waterproofing, which includes a number of different options to keep water away from your foundation. You can externally waterproof through the use of a gutter system, with water being redirected away from the ground close to your foundation to a runoff site at least ten feet away. From there the water can seep into the ground away from your foundation.
Another option with external waterproofing is to regrade the ground close to your foundation at an incline so that the water runs downward away from your foundation.
However, there can be some issues with this, as gutters become clogged, or the grading doesn’t hold up. For non-invasive measures such as external waterproofing, it can take a few hours to a day to install the gutters, regrade, and put in a runoff tank.
Internal
The second option is what is called internal waterproofing, which involves sealing cracks in your foundation. You can apply waterproof cement to the walls and cracks to provide a level of protection.
internal waterproofing, can take a little longer than external. While it can be fairly quick to apply the waterproof cement to a crack, it will take at least a day to dry, and you might need to put multiple coats on in order to make sure it is sealed properly. You could be looking at 2-3 days if you take this route.
This can be an easy option if done correctly. However, issues can come up as this method will only keep the water out of the crack but not divert the water away from your foundation.
The Best Option for Waterproofing
The third and best option for waterproofing your basement is what is called a sub floor pressure relief system. At Armored Basement, the Armored Basement Waterproofing System is the best option for your leaking basement. This system takes care of your leaking basement by diverting the water away from your basement.
As ground water rises after a storm, our system, through a sub floor channel, will redirect the water away from your basement walls and floors and towards your sump pump. Other options allow water to still slip through and cause issues, while the Armored Basement system removes these options and channels the water out from where it can cause damage to your home.
When it comes to the sub floor pressure relief system, it can depend on multiple factors for how long it takes to complete. Some basements are larger and require multiple sump pumps to be installed in order to drain properly, which can add time to the process. However, this process typically only takes 3-5 days.
Basement Waterproofers Near Me
At Armored Basement, making sure your home is properly defended from flooding and leaks is our number one priority. Armored Basement is a local, veteran owned company that has been in business for 20 years. While we have the goal of waterproofing your home and providing expert-level service, we are not looking to sell you a product you don’t need.
With that in mind, Armored Basement will provide you with a risk-free inspection from a real inspector. Our team will first find the source of the leaking basement before offering you a solution that works for you. With this guarantee, you can rest assured that our team has your best interests in mind.
Protecting your home will always be one of your top priorities. By waterproofing your basement you are able to defend your home from leaks and floods, and prevent deadly issues like mold. Solving these issues now will prevent bigger issues down the road. Contact Armored Basement today to schedule your free inspection and see if our system is right for you.
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