While there are a million and one fantastic things about owning your own home, there are also a few inevitable experiences that will make you say ‘what have I gotten myself into?’
Discovering water damage or noticing a leak in your basement is one of those moments. Fortunately, if you act quickly and follow a few simple steps, you can avoid the long-term negative effects of water damage.
How do leaks and water damage happen?
Water is tricky – even if your house is brand new construction, outdoor dampness will do its best to find a way inside. Living in Wisconsin, where we experience a moderate amount of rain and a significant amount of snow, there are plenty of opportunities for water to creep into your basement.
Some of the common areas where water can enter a home are through cracks in your basement foundation, buckled basement walls, insecure window wells or basement windows, malfunctioning drainage systems, and indoor appliances that use water (like a washing machine, basement shower, etc.).
What are the signs of water damage?
The best way to get ahead of a water damage issue is to keep an eye on your basement. If you notice condensation on the walls or appliances, standing water, or a musty or moldy smell, it is possible that you have a leak and should investigate further. If your basement is drywalled, keep an eye out for stains or discoloration. You will also want to periodically inspect any basement appliances for leaks as well as your drainage system to make sure it is working well.
If you have questions about any of these steps, give us a call! Here at Zablocki Waterproofing, we are happy to help with all of your basement waterproofing questions.
Ok, my home has water damage (or a leak). What do I do next?
If you notice any of the signs of water damage (see directly above for common symptoms), follow these steps:
- Cut electricity and gas to affected areas/appliances. Water and electricity do not mix, so the first thing you want to do is to cut electricity and power to any appliances or lights in the damp or wet area.
- Locate and patch the leak. Find the area where the water entered your basement and use temporary materials to patch the leak (you will want to call in a professional for permanent patching of a basement leak, particularly if it is in your basement walls or foundation.)
- Clean up the water. The method for removing all water from an affected area depends on how much water there is. If your basement is flooded, you will want to use a wet/dry vacuum or a bucket to remove all water. For smaller leaks, towels or a wet/dry vacuum will probably do the trick. Once all standing water is removed, you will want to dry out the area using towels and fans and open windows to improve air circulation. Also, be sure to remove any damaged materials from the area.
- Remedy the water damage. As the area dries, inspect it for mold growth. If you do notice mold, put on a protective mask and sanitize the area. If left alone, mold spores will continue to grow and can be harmful if inhaled. Next, assess what needs to be fixed: was the leak from a single crack in your basement wall or around a window? You may be able to fix these issues on your own. However, leaky pipes, significant cracks, buckled walls, or foundation issues all require the help of a professional.
- Waterproof your basement to prevent future issues. Once you fixed the problem that led to the water damage, it is time to call in a waterproofing expert like Zablocki. We can assess your needs and offer comprehensive solutions to ensure your basement stays clean and dry for the long-term. Trust us, it is a great investment.
Why is water damage something I want to fix immediately?
Water damage is one of those problems that will only get worse if you ignore it. Water in your home means there is a crack or leak that will inevitably let more and more water into your home. This can lead to mold growth, which can be dangerous to your health and significantly decrease the value of your home.
As soon as you notice basement leaks, moisture, or water damage, don’t wait: call in the experts at Zablocki Waterproofing today!
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