Basement Waterproofing

Wouldn't it be safer and more relaxing to have a clean basement and crawl spaces to let you live and move effortlessly without tripping over rodents, potholes, or your own feet? In this guide, we talk about waterproofing your space that is dark, dingy, and in need of rescue from contaminants.

Reasons to encapsulate

Besides the area for storage, today's basement design often includes room for pursuing hobbies and entertaining family and friends. Homeowners grappling with extreme weather outside and the complexities of protecting low-lying areas of the property may find basic tasks overwhelming. Plus, basements and crawl spaces exposed to mold, mildew, and rodents can cause poor air quality and health issues.

Analyze the existing space

Decide what you really want to achieve from encapsulating your basement or crawl space. You might begin with the most obvious question, "What is wrong with it?" Maybe you notice a strange odor with each visit. Perhaps you have been receiving high utility bills without a specific reason. Or maybe it just looks odd. You can change any of these situations with the help of a professional contractor.

Preparing for encapsulation

As a preventive measure, it is important to ensure that the foundation of the property is flawless before undertaking a waterproofing job. It is also important to have a sump pump basin in regions that are prone to flooding. Improper drainage is an indication that the drainage system is clogged or the foundation's grading is faulty. Mold growing around floor joists or the HVAC unit should be mitigated as well. A reliable contractor like Ultimate Pro Refrigeration will help check for back-drafting from combustible appliances. Remember that working on even the smallest basement requires careful planning.

Encapsulation methods

Crawl spaces and basements are usually encapsulated or protected by lining with heavy-duty polyethylene. This barrier seals the walls, floors, and ceilings wherever needed. Some linings contain antimicrobial coating to prevent mold growth and protect the space against decay and bad odor. A contractor will evaluate the existing space to get an idea of what method will work best.

Cost to encapsulate

As with any home improvement, you'll need to determine your budget for this project. Encapsulation cost varies depending on how much preparation is needed and what level of quality you want to achieve beyond the basic features. A repair in the foundation can easily run anywhere from $2,000 to $10,000 or more. Adding a sump pump costs another $1,000. Installing a sump pump basin is expensive, typically in the range of $5,000 to $15,000. The basement encapsulation with an exterior encapsulation can cost up to $15,000 as well. On average, homeowners should be ready to pay anywhere between $5,000 and $12,000 for the whole project.

Safety should reign as a crucial factor in any basement or crawl space encapsulation process. The goal is to lessen the chances of injuries while reducing the cost of overall maintenance. For more information on waterproofing your home, follow TheHomeMag on Facebook and Instagram.