Waterproofing your foundation is an important part of preserving your home’s structural integrity. It helps protect your foundation from water damage and water-related issues, while also preserving your home’s value.
In today’s post, we’ll focus on the long term benefits all homeowners enjoy when they proactively inspect and waterproof their foundations in the long term. If you’re planning to waterproof a foundation, Liquid Rubber is here to help -- look no further than our Foundation Sealer to get the DIY job done right the first time!
Benefits of Waterproofing Your Foundation
Waterproofing your foundation is smart thinking and a proactive way to mitigate potential future damage to your home. Among a variety of immediate benefits, these ones are at the top of the list:
- Prevention water ingress: Moisture seepage can cause serious damage to your foundation, including the growth of mold and mildew, rot, and weakened structural integrity. Waterproofing your foundation helps to prevent water ingress and keeps your foundation safe from these issues.
- Protection from flooding: If your home is located in an area prone to flooding, it’s important to waterproof your foundation as soon as possible, as it can minimize the impact of any flood event.
- Long-term protection: Waterproofing your foundation provides long-term protection from water damage and water-related issues. It also helps to extend the life of your foundation and keep it in good condition for many years.
- Increases your home’s value: It can help to increase the value of your home. Potential buyers are more likely to pay more for a home with a well-protected foundation.
- Reduced energy bills: It also helps to reduce energy bills. When your foundation is properly waterproofed, it aids in keeping the temperature in your home more consistent. This reduces the amount of energy needed to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home.
Signs You Need to Waterproof Your Foundation
There are several signs that indicate you may need to waterproof your foundation. If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to have your foundation inspected and waterproofed as soon as possible.
The good news here is that you don’t necessarily have to call out a professional service. You can use Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealer to get this DIY job done right the first time. (Read our related guide on this: Expert’s Guide to Basement Waterproofing.)
Key signs your basement needs to be waterproofed:
- Cracks in the foundation are one of the most common signs of a foundation in need of waterproofing.
- Stains on the walls near the foundation may indicate a water leak.
- If your basement feels damp or musty, it may be a sign of a water ingress problem.
- If you notice any pooling water near your foundation, it’s time to take action right away.
- If your foundation is settling or shifting, it may be a sign of water ingress and can lead to serious structural damage if it’s not addressed right away .
DIY or Professional Installation?
When it comes to waterproofing your foundation, you have the option of either doing it yourself (DIY) or hiring a professional. DIY waterproofing can be a cheaper option in the short-term, but it’s important to make sure you’re doing it properly. Improper installation can lead to serious water damage, so it’s important to read up on the proper installation techniques before attempting it yourself.
What’s more, DIY waterproofing is usually cheaper than professional waterproofing. However, if you choose to hire a professional, you can usually get a discount if you purchase the materials yourself.
Protecting Your Foundation from Water Damage
Waterproofing your foundation helps to protect it from water damage, but it’s important to take other steps to ensure your foundation stays safe. Here are a few tips for protecting your foundation from water damage:
- Regularly check for leaks around your foundation. If you notice any leaks, it’s important to repair them as soon as possible to prevent water damage.
- Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to pool around your foundation, which can lead to water damage. Inspect them regularly to ensure they are not clogged.
- It’s important to keep water away from your foundation as much as possible. You can do this by diverting water away from your foundation with downspouts and other types of water drainage systems.
- Planting shrubs and trees around your home can help to keep water away from your foundation. This is because the roots of shrubs and trees help to absorb water and keep it away from your foundation.
Need Even More Tips?
Liquid Rubber Foundation Sealant should be part of your basement and foundation waterproofing plan.
Liquid Rubber is the preferred solution for many homeowners and DIY enthusiasts, with easy-to-apply products and video tutorials that help you get the best results. Browse our online catalog to see our products, and easily order all the supplies we've featured here for your own basement waterproofing project.
