D-I-Why, and Why Not
Between HGTV and YouTube tutorials, it’s easy to think that we can take care of any problem that arises in our homes. Clogged drain? No problem. Uneven shelves? Easy peasy. Cracked basement wall? Get me a--
Stop right there.
There are limits to what you can do on your own, and many of those limits pop up when it comes to your basement. There are many things you can do to try to mitigate water problems, but there’s a point when it’s time to consult a professional. Let’s talk about what you can fix, and what you can’t.
Gutter Downspouts - Yes
Some water problems can be mitigated, if not solved, by installing extensions on your downspouts. Water pools at the foundation where the gutters empty, and while this isn’t the cause of most issues, the added water certainly doesn’t help. By extending the downspouts, you can direct the water away from your home, at least temporarily.
External Waterproofing System - No
The number of customers whose journey to us involves digging up the area around their foundation to apply some sort of “waterproof” paint or other product claiming it seals your foundation against water. This is a terrible idea - do not dig up your yard! Disturbing soil can cause issues down the road as it shifts and puts pressure on your foundation. External waterproofing rarely solves the problem, anyway, and is usually only helpful in conjunction with an internal system and sump pump.
Insulation - Sometimes
If you notice your energy bills rising even though your house is still uncomfortable, your home’s insulation might be to blame. There’s a lot you can do on your own here - for example, weather stripping can seal gaps around doors and windows. But when it comes to your basement or crawl space, it’s best to leave it to us. Traditional fiberglass insulation is a huge problem down there, harboring mold and becoming ineffective as it absorbs ambient moisture. We use a variety of insulation products that are inorganic and waterproof to protect your basement without the traditional risks.
Wall Cracks - Never
Do not try to “fix” a wall crack in your basement! Just don’t! There are tons of waterproof paints, foam fillers, and everything under the sun that market themselves as ways to seal off wall cracks. This is a bad idea for a few reasons. First, they do not work! Even if the crack is leaking, the water has made it through concrete, what makes you think paint is going to stop it? Secondly, the crack could be something much more than unsightly - wall cracks can be an early sign of total wall failure, and should be inspected by someone with the ability to correct structural issues.
No matter how pervasive the DIY trend gets, there are some things you just shouldn’t mess with. Call us for a free inspection and we’ll tell you what you can take care of yourself, and what you should leave to us.
