You need information when confronted with a leaking basement.
The intent of the Dry Space is to be helpful and informative so you can make wise buying decisions. As a company, we pride ourselves on providing that guidance.
Our 10 tips for a dry basement is a good starting place.
We have these tips on our business cards and other promotional material. Simple things, often overlooked, that can sometimes have a considerable impact on your problem. Check these things first when confronted with a problem in your basement.
Ten tips for a dry basement!
1. Run a dehumidifier during late spring, summer and early fall.
2. Clean out gutters in the spring and fall or as needed.
3. Position downspout extenders away from the foundation a minimum of 5 feet where possible.
4. Check the grade of soil around the house and make sure water does not puddle near the foundation. Ideally you should be able to see 2 -3 inches of exposed foundation above grade outside. You can check the exposed foundation for cracks also. If you see one, it is going through the wall and very likely going down to the floor.
5. Check window wells, drains, and well covers for proper function.
6. Check the exposed foundation for cracks. If you see one, it is going through the wall and very likely going down to the floor.
7. Check for other areas of moisture or seepage. Discolored baseboards and bubbling paint on drywall in finished basements
8. Check sump pump for proper operation.
9. Check back up pump for proper operation and check electrolyte level if required, at least twice a year. Maintenance free batteries have a service life of 4 - 5 years. ABD offers a battery load testing service that is able to help quantify battery health and expected longevity for installed batteries.
10. Call ABD Waterproofing with questions or concerns. We are available to answer your questions.
Again, little things that can make a huge difference. Managing the water coming off your roof, through the gutters and downspouts and into the yard, the importance can't be minimized. A future post will speak to the amount of water that collects on your roof during a storm. It will speak volumes.