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Basement Waterproofing questions, answered by experts
Yes, a crawl space can add value to your home. However, there is a higher chance of it adding value if it is an enclosed crawl space, as this reduces issues caused by excess moisture in the home. That being said, a basement does add more value than a crawl space.
Yes, cleaning a crawl space is worth the cost. Although it's an out-of-sight area, neglecting it can lead to significant problems like pest infestations (including termites and carpenter ants), mold, and fungal growth, which can cause structural damage. Regular cleaning helps prevent these issues. While hiring a contractor has ongoing costs, the price for cleaning—typically between $0.50 and $4 per square foot—is much lower than the cost to remediate a pest or mold problem. Additionally, a clean crawl space can lead to improved indoor air quality and more comfortable temperatures in your home.
Proper drainage is the only way to ensure that your crawl space stays dry. Depending on your property and the extent of your issue, you might need to consider a gutter system, a French drain, or sump pumps to avoid and handle water and moisture under your home. Dehumidifiers can also help to prevent moisture from accumulating if you have a high-humidity environment.
Due to the nature of basements, some level of waterproofing is necessary to prevent water from seeping in and causing damage. Some definitive signs that your basement needs waterproofing measures or needs existing waterproofing measures need to be updated include:
Water in your basement, including damp walls or puddles on the floor
Mold spots in your basement
Musty smells or odors
Warped doors or walls
Cracks in walls
Insect issues, such as cockroaches and termites
The primary reason homes have crawl spaces is so the foundation can reach down below the frost line to avoid dangerous soil movement and structural damage when the ground freezes. They’re more popular in colder climates where the ground freezes down to a few feet, and slabs are most popular in warmer areas where there is no frost line. Crawl spaces also provide a space for utility lines to run where they’re at less of a risk of freezing.
The Pinon, AZ homeowners’ guide to basement waterproofing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Need to fix basement water problems or safeguard your home from damage in the future? Use this basement waterproofing cost guide to budget appropriately.
An unfinished basement has a lot of potential for a family room or guest suite. So how much does it cost to finish a basement? Read on for all cost factors.
Dealing with a damp basement? Follow these steps for DIY basement waterproofing to keep water and moisture out and boost your home’s energy efficiency.
Can’t seem to get rid of the moisture and mold in your basement? Learn why basements tend to hold moisture and how to get rid of moisture in the basement.