Water can cause damage to residential or commercial property in Iowa. It doesn’t matter whether you have an empty basement, a basement you use for storage, or even a basement you use for living or working. If you own your property, water can be a constant concern. We can help you know what to look for and how to prevent water problems from ruining your Iowa home or business. Let’s take a look at some common water problems and their solutions.
Common Basement Waterproofing Problems
Problem 1: Wall / Floor Cracks
Wall cracks are just a water problem waiting to happen. If water is around your foundation, whether the cracks are in the floor or the walls, it will find its way into the basement via these cracks. It is important to note whether or not the wall is bowing or leaning where the cracks are occurring. It is also important to note if the floor is sloping or sagging to the point of any cracks in the floor. This could indicate more than just a water problem. It could be a foundation problem as well.
Wall / Floor Crack Solutions
If the walls are bowing and leaning, you may need wall anchors to resolve the issue. If you notice sagging or settlement, piers might need to be installed beneath the floor. It is wise to have cracks filled with an epoxy solution or chemical grouting. This can be injected into cracks to prevent further leaks.
Problem 2: Water / Moisture in Your Basement
When it rains or snows, or even if your gutters aren’t cleaned out and your downspouts aren’t pointing out and away from your foundation, water will build up around your foundation walls. Remember those cracks we mentioned above? Water will enter through those cracks. Basements in older structures are sometimes built with cinder blocks or other masonry products, where water can easily find its way in.
Wet Basement Solutions
If you already have water in your basement, you want an interior waterproofing system installed soon. This may include a drainage system, including a sump pump, sump pit, and sump basin. We recommend considering a battery backup sump pump. Iowa sees storms in the spring and summer, and if the power goes out, you have a backup sump pump to keep pumping the water out and away from your basement and foundation. We also might recommend a dehumidifier to remove moisture from the air and help prevent mold and mildew. It is important to note that each basement, home, or business is different and may require different waterproofing solutions. We can provide you with an estimate and help you decide on the best solution.
Problem 3: Water in the Yard / Landscaping
When the ground around your home is saturated, water can pool in your yard. If you live around a creek, river, or lake, the water table might be pretty low, which can cause flooding faster. This can lead to massive headaches, including flooding of your basement.
Solutions for Standing Water in Your Iowa Yard
By installing an exterior waterproofing solution that might include French drains, downspouts, water collection, and more, Jerry’s Waterproofing can help move standing water out and away from your foundation, keeping your home safe from water intrusion. We use waterproofing products from Earth Contact Products, and we can use a wide selection of waterproofing tools to suit your specific needs.
It might be cold and snowy right now, but soon, that snow will melt, and look for a way into your home. Remember that the team and Jerry’s Waterproofing can help protect your Iowa home or business with a custom waterproofing solution. Call us today to get an estimate and get started. Keep your home or business dry, mold-free, and healthy with our help!