Signs You Need Waterproofing in Pittsburgh, PA | Matthews Wall Anchor & Waterproofing

Does My Pittsburgh, PA Home Need Waterproofing?

By on July 4th, 2014
Tags: Basement Waterproofing, Q&A, Residential Blog

How do I know If I need to have my basement waterproofed?

Basements are great to have because they add so much extra space to your home, but they can be a big headache when a water problem occurs. Because basements are in the ground, they are susceptible to high humidity, water seepage, and flooding. These problems, however, can be permanently fixed by a professional, basement waterproofing contractor.

Here are some tips to let you know if you need basement waterproofing:

  1. CHECK AFTER A HEAVY RAIN: If there is a water problem in the basement, it certainly will be evident after a heavy rainfall. Visit your basement within 24 hours after the rain to check for signs of seepage. listen for running or dripping water, and look for puddles of water on the floor. If you have a sump pump, make sure that it is adequately able to pump all of the water that has collected in the sump pit.
  2. encapsulation and vapor barrierBASEMENT WALL DISCOLORATION: A discolored basement wall is an indication that there has been water seepage in the wall. The discoloring may be a dark stain or peeling if the wall is painted. Basements in a high water table may experience this kind of seepage as water makes its way through basement wall cracks.
  3. MOLD AND RUST: Look for signs of mold growth on the walls, floor or on the stuff that you store in your basement. If there is mold growth, this is a sure sign of increased moisture in the basement, as moisture is necessary for mold to grow. Also look for rust on metal surfaces in the basement. Rusty metal will also indicate a high moisture problem.
  4. VISIBLE WATER DAMAGE: A water problem in a finished basement may cause damage to the walls. look for damage, such as rotting, at the base of the wall. Check drywall, plaster, and paneling for signs of cracking or buckling. Unfinished basement walls that have suffered damage might also show signs of buckling or cracks in the concrete.
  5. EFFLORESCENCE: Look for a white, chalky deposit on basement walls. This is efflorescence, and it is a sign of a moisture problem. It is the result of water that has seeped through porous concrete and evaporated. The water makes these pores larger and creates a potentially worse problem.
  6. ALWAYS VERIFY BEFORE FINISHING A BASEMENT: When finishing your basement, it is important to bring in a basement waterproofing expert to inspect your basement and waterproofing system, or install a system if there is not one already in place. Finishing the basement without a properly functioning waterproofing system is asking for trouble. You may need a sump pump or other interior and exterior waterproofing to ensure your investment in your new finished basement. Better to be safe than sorry.

Matthews Wall Anchor & Waterproofing Services provides free inspections so if there is any question about your basement, call us and we can help you determine the extent of your problem and find a solution. We also have free estimates so you know ahead of time the cost of your waterproofing project. Call today!

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