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Basement Waterproofing 101: Protect Your Home from Water Damage

For homeowners in Cambridge, a dry, healthy basement is essential for both the structural integrity and overall comfort of your home. Unfortunately, because your basement sits below ground level, they're particularly vulnerable to water intrusion and moisture buildup, which can lead to all sorts of problems from mold and mildew growth to serious structural damage.

We've all been in basements that are suspiciously musty, moist, and dank - nobody wants their own basement to fit that description! That's where basement waterproofing comes in. Basement waterproofing is one of the best things you can do to protect your home and its foundation from water damage - here's what you need to know.

What Does Basement Waterproofing Entail?

Basement waterproofing involves several techniques aimed at preventing water from entering your basement, which can involve changes to both the interior and exterior of your property. This can include the installation of drainage systems such as sump pumps in your basement or French drains and other surface drains in your yard. These systems work together to channel water away from your home and keep it from seeping through your basement's walls or up through the floor.

Depending on the type of walls your basement has and the condition they're in, we may also take additional measures like re-mortaring old masonry, fixing foundation cracks, and applying waterproof seal coating to the walls and floors of your basement. We may also recommend seal coating your basement's exterior walls for additional moisture protection. Ultimately, basement waterproofing is a service unique to every homeowner, because every property has its own unique demands.

Tips for Maintaining a Dry, Healthy Basement Year-Round

Even with professional basement waterproofing, there are steps you can take as a homeowner to maintain a dry, healthy basement:

• Check Gutters and Downspouts: Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around the foundation, increasing the risk of water damage. Ensure that your gutters are free of debris and that downspouts direct water away from the foundation with regular seasonal gutter cleanings. If your gutters are damaged or showing signs of failing, get them fixed as soon as possible!
• Use a Dehumidifier: It's easy for humidity to get trapped in low-lying spaces like your basement. Using a dehumidifier can help control moisture levels in your basement, preventing mold and mildew growth as well as those damp, musty "basement" smells.
• Landscaping: Ensure that the landscaping around your home slopes away from the foundation. Proper grading helps prevent water from pooling near your basement walls.
• Maintain Your Drainage Systems: Sump pumps can last for up to 10 years with proper maintenance, and other types of drainage systems can last even longer. Keeping up with basic drainage maintenance will extend the lifespan of these systems and continue to protect your basement from water intrusion.

How Miller Masonry Can Help

At Miller Masonry, we specialize in basement waterproofing and have the experience and tools to address any water intrusion issue in your basement. We've been a trusted masonry contractor in Cambridge since 1998 and have helped countless locals keep their basements safe from water damage. Our team of experts can assess your home's needs, recommend the best solutions for your unique needs, and execute the work with precision and care. Call Miller Masonry to request a custom estimate for your basement waterproofing today at 857-506-0223.