Spring is a time for new beginnings, and what could be more important for your home than ensuring its foundation and basement are in good shape? We have put together a list of to-dos for spring that will help keep your basement dry and your foundation stable.
Whether you’re a do-it-yourselfer or you need some professional help, we’ve got you covered! At Zablocki Waterproofing, we help homeowners with basement waterproofing and foundation repair in Milwaukee, so we know a thing or two about keeping homes in tip-top shape.
Here are some basement waterproofing and foundation repair projects to add to your spring home maintenance list:
Check for Cracks.
Check for cracks in your foundation and basement walls and, if they’re smaller than .25,” consider sealing them with concrete caulk or epoxy. The materials you need for this project can be found at the hardware store. Cracks of any size in your basement walls mean moisture has an entrance, so it’s important to address them before it’s too late — they will only get larger over time. For cracks larger than .25″ wide, DIY fillers won’t do the trick; you’ll want to hire an experienced basement waterproofing company like Zablocki to help you out.
Clean Your Gutters & Downspouts.
Your gutters play an important role in keeping your basement dry by directing water away from your foundation. Be sure to clean them out regularly, especially in the spring when they’re likely to be full of debris like leaves and twigs. Clogged gutters can lead to basement flooding, so it’s best to nip the problem in the bud! Cleaning your gutters yourself is possible, but it can be dangerous, messy, and time-consuming. If you are looking to invest in a project this season, you may want to consider hiring a professional company to clean your gutters. If you do decide to do it yourself, follow these steps to clean your gutters:
- First, remove any debris from your gutters with a garden trowel or gloved hand.
- Next, use a hose to flush out the gutters and downspouts, being careful not to damage the gutters in the process.
- Finally, inspect your gutters and downspouts for any leaks or damage. If you find any, it’s best to call a professional basement waterproofing company like Zablocki Waterproofing for repairs.
It’s also a good idea to invest in gutter guards, which will keep your gutters from clogging in the first place! Gutter guards come in a variety of materials and price points, so you’re sure to find something that fits your budget.
Inspect Your Sump Pump…or Install One!
If you have a basement, chances are you also have a sump pump. A sump pump is a vital part of any basement waterproofing system, as it helps to remove water that has made its way into your basement. Take a look at your sump pump and make sure there is no debris blocking any part of the mechanism.
If your basement is prone to flooding and you don’t already have a sump pump, consider installing one! A sump pump will automatically remove water from your basement, preventing costly damage to your home. This is a project best left to the professionals, so be sure to hire a basement waterproofing company with experience installing sump pumps. We’re happy to help you out at Zablocki Waterproofing.
Add Drainage to Your Property.
If your basement is particularly susceptible to flooding, you may want to consider adding drainage to your property. This will help redirect water away from your foundation and basement, preventing basement flooding before it even starts! Again, this is a project best left to the experts, so be sure to consult with a basement waterproofing company like Zablocki before you get started.
Spring has sprung, and that means it’s time to start thinking about your home maintenance checklist! Don’t neglect your basement and foundation – above are some ideas for DIY projects you can do to protect your basement from moisture and ensure your foundation stays strong for years to come.
At Zablocki Waterproofing Milwaukee, we’re here to help you keep your basement and foundation in good shape all year long. Contact us today for more information on our basement waterproofing and foundation repair services.
