When winter comes around, it can bring a slew of problems for homeowners, one of which is the risk of basement moisture caused by the cold temperatures. Waterproofing your basement is essential for making sure that your home is protected from the damaging effects of moisture and winter basement waterproofing is a preventative measure that can make a big difference!
Keeping moisture from seeping into the basement of your home and causing potentially costly damage is something every homeowner wants. Read on to learn more about the steps you could take to protect your home from the damaging effects of winter moisture. You can help keep your home and basement safe from winter moisture and other forms of damage!
1. Be Prepared for Snow Melt to Cause Water Buildup Around Your Foundation
When it comes to winter basement waterproofing, one of the most important things to be aware of is the risk of water buildup near your home’s foundation during snow melt. As the snow recedes, it can lead to high levels of water near the foundation, which can cause water to seep into the basement and cause serious damage.
To be prepared for the potential for snow melt to cause water buildup around your foundation, make sure that you have a properly installed and maintained perimeter drainage system. This will help to direct water away from the foundation and prevent water from seeping into the basement. Additionally, make sure that your gutters are functioning properly to help divert water away from your foundation as much as possible.
2. Frozen Pipes Can Instantly Turn Your Basement into a Water Disaster
Winter basement waterproofing is a must for protecting your home from moisture risks. One of the most serious risks is frozen pipes. When temperatures drop, basement pipes can freeze and cause them to burst. This can instantly turn your basement into a watery disaster. To reduce this risk, you should make sure to keep your pipes above freezing temperatures by insulating them properly.
You should also consider installing a heating system to keep your pipes warm during the cold months. It’s also a good idea to have a backup system in place in case of a power outage. Taking these steps will help you avoid costly repairs and costly water damage.
3. Winter Can Cause High Water Tables That Can Cause Basement Cracking
Basement waterproofing during the winter is a crucial step for homeowners to protect their basements against winter moisture risks. One of the most common winter moisture risks is an increase in water tables due to winter weather. This is because the cold temperatures cause underground water to freeze and expand, resulting in higher water tables.
High water tables can cause the soil around your foundation to shift, leading to cracks in the basement walls. To protect your foundation from this, it is important to waterproof your basement before winter arrives.
4. Ice Damming Can Prevent Snow Melt from Draining Properly, Sending It Right Into Your Foundation
Winter basement waterproofing is essential in cold climates. One of the most common issues with basement water infiltration during the winter is ice damming. When snow builds up on the roof of your home, the warm air inside your attic will melt the underside of the snow and cause it to run down your roof.
As the water reaches the edge of your roof, it will freeze and create an ice dam. This will prevent the melted snow from draining properly, sending it right into your foundation. To avoid this, make sure to insulate your attic and keep vents clear of snow accumulation.
5. Winter Weather Can Easily Cause Power Outages, Disabling Your Sump Pump
Winter basement waterproofing is an important step that homeowners should take to avoid moisture risks during the cold winter months. One particular risk to be aware of is power outages caused by severe winter weather.
Without power, your sump pump will be unable to operate, leaving your basement vulnerable to water damage. To prevent this, it is important to have a backup power source in place. This could be a generator, a battery-powered sump pump, or a power transfer switch. A transfer switch will automatically switch to the backup power source when the regular power source fails.
Taking these steps to ensure that your sump pump is always operational during winter weather is an essential part of winter basement waterproofing.
Winter basement waterproofing is a necessary precaution for homeowners who want to protect their homes from water and moisture damage. By taking the time to have your basement waterproofed and ensuring that your drainage systems are working properly, you can ensure that your basement is protected from winter moisture risks. Investing in professional waterproofing services is the best way to make sure your basement is protected, and that your home remains free of water damage.
Schedule a Free 20-Point Inspection
If you have questions about your foundation or would like to schedule an inspection to ensure the base of your home is in good shape, EverDry Toledo can help with a FREE 20-point basement inspection! We’ll help you pinpoint the source of the moisture problem. If it’s foundation-related, our waterproofing solutions can make your basement dry, healthy, and comfortable.
Contact us online to schedule an appointment or give us a call at (419) 469-5833 and schedule your inspection today!
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