How to Obtain and Make the Most of A Dry Basement

There are many benefits to having a clean, dry basement. A dry basement is completely void of moisture or water that, over time, can seep through the cracks and openings in concrete walls, floors, joints or vents. Sealing is very important to having a dry basement, if not maintained, a basement may become prone to flooding.

A clean dry basement is free of bad odors, drips, or leaks that tend to cause wetness, mildew and mold. Such mildew and mold have some costly residual effects: they can cause a large variety of health issues, especially in children and adults who already suffer from asthma, from breathing in the spores that freely float in the air.

Storage

Doesn’t it always seem like there's not enough room for all the items you want to keep? So, over time, our homes begin to fill up with personal belongings and there just isn’t anywhere to keep it all. Either toss it, give it away, or maybe there’s a room that’s been forgotten up until now.

A dry basement can be the perfect match! When dry, a basement is a safe place for clothes, old magazines, children’s toys, tools, appliances, old records or other valuables. However, a damp basement can be a poor environment for storage because it can cause moisture damage and even make the items smell!

Extra Living Space

A basement with a proper heating and cooling system will control moisture and unconditioned air, making for a warm and cozy additional living space. It gets better. You don’t have to worry about the hefty investment of having an addition constructed, because a healthy basement can be found in any house and can be transformed into a family room, bedroom, sitting room, game room, gym, home office, or whatever specifically meets you and your family’s needs.

Most real estate agents will tell you that anyone who is considering purchasing a home considers a clean, dry, usable basement to be a bonus.
Remodeling

You have the dry basement, but you don’t know how to get started on enjoying the space. Consider installing cabinets, shelves or other decorative storage units to add character to this practical addition. Having extra storage in your basement is not only affordable, but very convenient—and cute!

We have covered several of the benefits of a dry basement from the standpoint of additional living space, providing a new warm, cozy living environment and preventing health issues, but how does a landlord or homeowner maintain a clean, dry basement?

Regular Inspections

If your basement is currently not a part of your home’s living space because it’s slightly unhealthy, it might be time to implement some repairs. After the repairs are made, it’s highly recommended to regularly check the basement either on a weekly or bi-weekly basis for any signs of moisture or water.

Waterproofing Substances

There are waterproofing substances that can be applied; sprayed, rolled and brushed onto the walls and floor to prevent water from seeping through the concrete blocks, leaks, drips, or cracks. However, regular maintenance and inspections should be done to ensure water or moisture isn’t entering into the space.

In addition, you can hire a professional basement waterproofer to suggest the most effective ways to repair your leaky basement and maintain a dry space. There are plenty of products that can withstand the effects of water damage, meaning that the presence of moisture won’t be able to produce mold!

These preventive measures should be carried out before drips or leaks occur. In doing so, you’re preventing damaging items such as; clothing, toys, magazines, records and other valuables stored in the basement.

Solutions

If your home is located in a marshy area making it very susceptible to water problems, there’s still hope for having a dry basement.

Although it can be difficult at times, with the proper repairs and maintenance, your basement will be dry; enjoyable; and healthy. You can begin by sloping the landscaping around the foundation of your home. This process allows the water to flow away from your home, instead of into your foundation.

Installing drainage pipes is another useful method and allows the water to freely drain away from the foundation of your home, protecting it against water damage.

Conclusion

Homeowners can take advantage of these suggestions to achieve a dry basement. In doing so, they’re taking a proactive approach before a major problem occurs.

Be sure to contact a professional basement waterproofing company that will examine your basement, evaluate the situation and recommend the best and most cost efficient way to solve the problem. Contact Master Services today for a free estimate for basement waterproofing in Knoxville.