Most of you will already know that waterproofing is a must-do task for any basement remodeling project. But do you know how serious the situation can be if you neglect to do it? Waterproofing ensures your basement will last for generations to come; but the long-term picture isn’t the only consideration. Even in the short-term, a lack of waterproofing measures will quickly cause major disruption. From damp to mold and structural damage, we explore exactly what happens if you don’t waterproof your basement. But please be warned: don’t try this at home!

Damp will wreak havoc

It seems like an obvious statement, but if you fail to waterproof your basement then your space will suffer from damp. In reality, damp is a serious and very frustrating problem. Not only does it smell bad, but it can ruin your possessions too. If you have a bookshelf in your basement or even cardboard-backed pictures, they’ll start to warp and wrinkle - until they reach an unsalvageable state. If you fail to waterproof your basement, damp can be very difficult to get rid of.

Your space will suffer from mold, mold and more mold

Mold comes hand-in-hand with damp, when moist conditions allow organisms to thrive and spread. Mold, like damp, is very smelly - but it can be dangerous too; potentially causing respiratory problems via harmful airborne spores. This is especially problematic if your basement is intended as an extra bedroom. Eight hours a night of exposure to mold is not good for your health; and on a basic hygiene level is very unpleasant too. If you don’t waterproof your underground space, there’s no getting around the fact that mold will present itself, and it will be a serious problem.

Your property may suffer structural damage

In small amounts water may seem harmless, but with persistent rainfall or even a build-up of water over a period of time, it can be a force to be reckoned with. Structurally, your basement needs to be able to withstand water - from general dampness to full-on flooding. If the walls are becoming saturated, this can cause significant damage which may require building work. Cracks or crumbling mortar are usually the first sign of damage to your foundations, while a full inspection is recommended to assess exterior, interior and load-bearing walls. To avoid a prolonged headache and spiraling repair costs, preventative waterproofing is always best.

To find out more about basement waterproofing, please get in touch with our team today. We’ll be happy to talk through the options over the phone, or arrange an on-site visit to conduct a formal assessment of your basement space. Once waterproofing measures in place, you will be ready to transform your room into a new and usable place for the whole family to enjoy!