Get matched with top basement waterproofing pros in Burley, ID

Typically, waterproofing a basement should last up to 10 years. However, it’s worth noting that with proper maintenance and depending on the waterproofing method and installation quality, you can probably squeeze another decade out of it.

While water in your basement is unlikely to make you sick unless it’s coming from a sewage backup, mold is likely to start to grow in wet areas within 24 hours, and mold can make you sick. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), inhaling mold spores can cause allergy symptoms, including runny nose, itchy eyes, difficulty breathing, wheezing, and itchy skin. Individuals with pre-existing respiratory issues like asthma and immunocompromised individuals are at an elevated risk of symptoms when inhaling mold spores.

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.

Yes, it is possible to over-dehumidify a house by removing too much moisture from the air. This can create an overly dry environment that negatively affects those with respiratory or skin issues, and may cause your skin, hair, and sinuses to feel dry. However, this is unlikely to happen with most modern dehumidifiers, as they are equipped with moisture sensors and adjustable settings. These features allow the unit to pause automatically when the desired humidity level is reached, preventing the air from becoming uncomfortably dry. In contrast, older or more basic dehumidifiers left running for too long could potentially over-dry the air. To avoid this, aim for a balance between removing excess moisture and maintaining a comfortable environment. You can often monitor your home's humidity levels using a modern thermostat for guidance.