Basement Waterproofing: Frequently Asked Questions
The feeling you get when you find a leak in your home’s basement can only be “dread.” When your home’s foundation settles enough that more moisture is able to reach your basement, it can lead to damp spots at best and highly problematic flooding at worst. Regardless of your basement leak’s severity, you need to address the problem right away before any (or more) of your possessions are ruined.
Basement waterproofing can sometimes be misrepresented as a cookie-cutter fix, and that can leave you with even more questions than you started with upon finding that leak. Allmaster Home Services is here to clear up some of the most frequently asked questions about this service, as no homeowner should ever be kept in the dark about what they need to help keep their homes in tip-top shape.
Which Basement Waterproofing System is Best?
So, here’s the thing about basement waterproofing: There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Your needs will vary from those of other homeowners based on your basement setup, your foundation, and other factors determined with a pre-installation inspection. Typical interior and exterior methods include:
- Drain systems
- Downspouts
- Sump pumps
- Yard drainage
- Crawlspace encapsulation
- Drain tile systems
It’s important to remember that, because every home is different, your basement may not need as much work as your neighbor’s. A better question would be, “Which basement waterproofing system is best for my home?” And that is an answer you’ll get after an inspection.
How Much Does Waterproofing a Basement Cost?
Because everyone’s needs are different, it’s impossible to give an exact number without knowing your exact situation. In 2021, according to HomeAdvisor, homeowners spent an average of $4,588 on basement waterproofing projects with costs ranging between $2,252 and $7,110. Again, do keep in mind that the cost of your project will be determined by your needs. Homeowner’s insurance policies do not always cover basement waterproofing projects, however, and it is also not tax deductible as it is a home repair.
Is Basement Waterproofing Worth the Investment?
The short answer is “yes.” Keeping your basement dry, no matter how you use it, is always a great idea. And in coastal states like Maryland where water runoff, flooding, and similar water problems aren’t infrequent, acting before your have a problem can prevent you from having to make even bigger repairs—and shelling out far more money—later. Plus, it’s a great way to add value to your home as potential homebuyers would love to know they don’t have to worry about moving in and dealing with flooding shortly afterward.
Can I Waterproof My Basement Myself?
You could try to waterproof your basement yourself, but this is only a good idea if you know what you’re doing—as in, you’re a contractor with plenty of experience in the field. And even then, you’ll likely need some help. DIY basement waterproofing may provide a temporary solution, but you may be back to square one before long. It takes a team of experts to correctly identify where the problem is coming from and how to fix it properly, not to mention actually getting to work. It’s a much safer bet to hire a basement waterproofing company to get the job done quickly and correctly.
In Maryland, homeowners have counted on Allmaster for top-notch basement waterproofing services since 1987. With more than 75 combined years of experience in our team, we’ve seen all kinds of basement problems and have found the best ways to fix them. Contact us today to learn more and schedule your appointment.
