The Top 8 Best Products for Effective Basement Waterproofing

When it comes to protecting your home from dampness, standing water, and all the issues they can bring, high-quality waterproofing products are incredibly important. In fact, getting the right waterproofing products can ensure that you never have to deal with a flooded basement or stubborn mold formations. As such, it pays to talk to a professional about which products would be best for your home and your needs before you make any decisions. In fact, it would be best to hire an expert in the Traverse City area to undertake the whole waterproofing process. 

Why You Shouldn’t Waterproof Your Basement Alone 

It can be tempting to attempt a DIY waterproofing project, especially if you are an enthusiastic amateur handyman, but we urge you not to. There are many things that can go wrong if you attempt this process without professional help. 

First and foremost, you could cover up pre-existing issues in your home and thereby allow them to percolate and grow unchecked. Secondly, if you install an unsuitable solution or install products improperly, you could end up trapping moisture inside your basement. This would lead to an exacerbated version of the issues that you are already facing. Only products that address your home’s particular situation, properly installed, can provide effective protection for your home. 

Our Top 8 Products for Basement Waterproofing 

FSM is one of the most reputable basement waterproofing and repair specialists in Michigan; we have worked hard to create a portfolio of effective and durable waterproofing products. 

Interior Drains 

Interior drains are a sound investment for any homeowner who has a basement that is susceptible to flooding. Because of their concealed position around the perimeter of a room, interior drains are the perfect waterproofing measures for installation inside a home. These drains work by intercepting any leaking water from the walls, floor, and wall-floor joint before it has a chance to damage anything in the basement. The collected water is then directed to drain into a sump pump system.  

Sump Pump 

Having a sump pump in your home is all-important to its health if you regularly have issues with water intrusion and dampness. There are many different types of sump pumps on the market right now, of course, but we favor our systems because of their durability and effectiveness. 

Backup Sump Pump 

If the particular sump pump system you choose does not have a battery-powered backup pump already included, investing in a high-quality backup sump pump is key, especially in the event of a blackout. When your main pump loses power, a backup pump will step in to fill the void and keep your home dry.  

Vapor Barrier 

Vapor barriers are some of the most basic and effective waterproofing products on the market right now. This is because of the way they create a safe, dry space within your basement into which no water, mold, or pests can invade. CrawlSeal barriers are thick, durable, and mold resistant. 

Dehumidifier 

A dehumidifier is often one of the last pieces of equipment that is installed into a basement that is undergoing waterproofing, but it is nonetheless one of the most important. By removing water from the air and lowering relative humidity, a dehumidifier will protect your home from dampness, rot, and mold, and it can lower your energy consumption as well. 

Downspout Extensions 

Extended downspouts may be just one small feature, but they can make a huge difference when it comes to managing hydrostatic pressure and waterproofing your home. By ensuring that water doesn’t pool around your perimeter, these downspouts could save you a lot of time and money. 

Durable Seamless Gutters 

Your home’s gutter system is an underappreciated hero when it comes to waterproofing. If your current gutters are damaged or unsuitable, a new gutter system will ensure that water drains safely from around your home. 

Standby Generators 

Some of your home’s waterproofing measures will require power to work properly. While you could invest in backup power supplies for each of them, a standby generator for your home as a whole will perform the same function, arguably with more efficiency. 

By reaching out to a local expert, you can have these important measures set in place with ease. They can safeguard your home and your family’s safety. Reach out to the professionals at FSM for a free inspection and repair quote and see what comes next. 

Leah Leitow

Content Writer

Leah is a Content Writer for Groundworks with nearly ten years of experience working in the foundation repair industry. Her experience ranges from working with homeowners to find the right solution to training inspectors and staff. In her background as a Michigan journalist, she gained invaluable insight into people's lives throughout our state. Leah lives in metro Detroit with her husband and two sons.