Even if you don’t use your basement often, it’s still crucial to maintain it for the well-being of your home’s occupants. Inspectors who carry out routine basement inspections can spot problems that many would have otherwise missed, which could worsen into more dangerous and costly problems if allowed to fester. Having a professional basement inspection on a routine basis will help prevent these five problems from becoming a nightmare.
Finding Water Leaks
Water leaks are a common occurrence in most households, especially those built a long time ago. However, it can be problematic for homeowners because it can be difficult to track where the water is entering. Whether through cracks or windows, water can seep into your basement in many different ways. If you want to address any interior water damage before it worsens, you need to address the leaks at their source. A professional basement inspector will know how to find water intrusion points so you can keep your basement dry.
Discovering Mold Growth
It’s entirely possible that mold is growing in your basement without you knowing. Any excess moisture or dampness can increase mold growth, allowing it to flourish. Mold can grow in numerous places, from the wood in the flooring to the wallpaper on the walls, and if you don’t address it soon, there can be serious consequences.
In addition to appearing unsightly, mold can cause breathing problems and other health hazards. Further, the harmful air it creates can travel to the rest of your home and make it less comfortable to live in. For that reason, basement inspections are incredibly important, as the inspector can find mold growth before it becomes a problem and offer remediation tips.
Identifying Foundational Issues
Mold growth isn’t the only basement problem caused by water. The pressure of rain and groundwater can create horizontal cracks in the foundation of your home, while uneven settling may cause diagonal cracks. Given how the foundation is responsible for the structural integrity of your house and keeping it safe, the situation could become dangerous for your family if cracks form. Basement inspections will help identify the easily missable signs of foundation damage before it’s too late and too expensive to fix. An expert can determine which foundation crack is the most serious and advise you on which part of the foundation should be repaired.
Addressing Broken Appliances and Systems
Your basement is home to several components that keep the residence functional, such as the boiler and electrical systems. However, should any unnoticed damage occur in your basement, these systems may cease to work and be costly to repair. For example, the sump pump in your basement works hard to remove water from your basement, preventing damage. If it stops functioning, it can result in serious water damage. After a thorough basement inspection, you’ll have a greater understanding of the condition of your appliances downstairs and whether or not they need maintenance or repair.
Revealing Pests Before They Get Out of Control
Are there mice in your basement? If you don’t commit to routine basement inspections, vermin and other pests may start making your basement their home. Some pests, like termites, can cause significant damage if left unchecked, while others may contribute to health problems. An expert inspector will know how to look for these pests and help stop them before they become too much to handle.
Whether you need basement waterproofing around Philadelphia or basement mold remediation in NJ, you can rely on Rightway Waterproofing each and every time. Contact us today to schedule your appointment.
