At Engineered Waterproofing, we know that when it comes to keeping your basement dry, there’s a lot of misinformation out there. Many homeowners are under the impression that waterproofing is either unnecessary or too costly. But the truth is, proper basement waterproofing can save you from serious headaches down the road. Let’s take a look at some of the most common basement waterproofing myths and clear up the confusion!
Myth 1: “My House is New, So I Don’t Need Waterproofing”
Many people assume that new homes are built with modern, waterproofing technologies, so they don’t need additional protection. While new homes may have some waterproofing measures, they’re often not enough to handle extreme weather or long-term moisture issues. In Northeast Ohio, we experience a lot of weather fluctuations-from heavy rains in the spring to snowy winters-making it essential to keep your basement protected. Even a new house can develop water issues over time, and ignoring waterproofing could lead to foundation cracks, mold growth, and costly repairs down the road.
Myth 2: “Sealing Cracks is Enough to Keep My Basement Dry”
While sealing small cracks in your basement walls might help for a short time, it’s not a complete solution. Water can still find its way through other areas of the foundation, especially when there’s significant pressure from groundwater or heavy rain. To truly protect your basement, a comprehensive waterproofing system, including proper drainage, sump pumps, and waterproof coatings, is necessary. It’s important to address the entire system, not just seal the cracks!
Myth 3: “Basement Waterproofing is Too Expensive”
The cost of waterproofing can seem like a big investment, but it’s important to think long-term. Ignoring basement water issues can lead to serious problems, such as mold,
mildew, wood rot, and even structural damage. These problems will cost much more to fix down the road compared to investing in a proper waterproofing system now. Think of it as an investment in the health and longevity of your home. Plus, protecting your basement can improve your home’s resale value, which is a huge bonus if you ever decide to sell.
Myth 4: “A Sump Pump Will Solve All My Basement Problems”
While sump pumps are a critical part of many waterproofing systems, they aren’t a one-size-fits-all solution. If your basement doesn’t have proper drainage or if there’s a
buildup of debris in your system, a sump pump alone might not be enough to keep water out. For effective waterproofing, the entire drainage system must be properly designed and installed. A sump pump works best when it’s part of a well-maintained, complete waterproofing system.
Myth 5: “Waterproofing Only Helps During Floods”
You might think waterproofing is only necessary when flooding happens, but that’s far from the truth. In Northeast Ohio, where we get our fair share of heavy rain and snowmelt, waterproofing helps protect your basement from everyday moisture issues. Even small amounts of moisture or humidity can cause mold growth, wood rot, and other damage.
Waterproofing ensures that your basement stays dry year-round, no matter the weather.
Myth 6: “Once My Basement is Waterproofed, I Never Have to Worry About It Again”
While a properly waterproofed basement can last for many years, regular maintenance is still necessary to ensure everything is working correctly. This includes checking the sump pump, cleaning out drains, and inspecting for any new cracks or issues. Northeast Ohio weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to stay on top of your waterproofing system to prevent any issues from cropping up.
Don’t fall for these myths! If you’re worried about your basement’s waterproofing, Engineered Waterproofing is here to help. We have years of experience dealing with all kinds of waterproofing challenges, from high humidity to extreme weather conditions. Our team can assess your basement, recommend a tailored solution, and ensure your home stays dry and protected year-round.
If you’re ready to stop worrying about basement water problems, give us a call today! We’ll make sure your basement is properly waterproofed and ready to handle whatever Mother Nature throws its way.