When you think about water damage ruining your home, you probably think about the expensive furniture or the renovation costs. The indoor air quality is perhaps not even on the list of concerns to address. However, water damage can be hazardous, and the worst part is, you might not even be aware of it. If you have a home flood, water can get into tiny spaces, and once the drywall absorbs it, mould can start to develop, leading to reduced air quality.

What Causes Water Damage?

Water damage can occur in numerous ways. If a pipe or appliance starts leaking and you notice it on time, you can easily tackle the issue. When the humidity inside the home is too high, condensation can occur on any home surface and lead to potential water damage.

There are many causes of moisture that may often be overlooked, such as cracks, roof drainage, and leaky windows. Many of the moisture problems can be solved by waterproofing your basement.

The worst and possibly most impactful way water damage can occur is through flooding, which natural disasters can cause. If there is an overflow of water in the house and you cannot stop it in time, it can affect the entire household.

How Can the Indoor Air Quality Affect Residents?

Indoor air pollutants caused by water damage can harm the home’s residents. Short-term impacts can include irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, headaches, and fatigue. But if an individual with underlying health conditions spends too much time in an area surrounded by polluted air, it can cause potentially cause respiratory diseases, heart disease, and cancer.

Almost all members of the house are at risk, including children, seniors, and active adults. Children breathe more than adults, so they are more sensitive to pollution. Seniors may have diseases or diabetes that put them at risk. Active adults who exercise indoor breathe faster and deeply, drawing the pollutants into the lungs.

How Can You Improve Air Quality After Water Damage Takes Place?

In most cases, after water damage takes place, there is no going back. You might have insurance to help you out, or the chances are that you are already working on dealing with the issue. But as for your air quality, it is essential to take steps before things get out of hand.

One of the first steps you should take is to look for professionals who specialize in basement waterproofing in Toronto or if you are located elsewhere, search for a company within that range. The waterproofing process is a multi-step job that requires the help of a professional.

What is Basement Waterproofing?

Waterproofing the basement is a multi-step process that requires restoration contractors to dig around and find the root cause of the issue. It is the process of using specific materials to prevent water from entering a house.

What Are the Steps for Waterproofing?

The process of waterproofing is lengthy but worth the investment as the long term impacts of water damage can be worrisome. Here is a brief step-by-step guide to the process.

  • Step 1: Excavation – The contractors will need to dig the outer perimeter of the basement down to the foundation to figure out the current condition of the space. Heavy equipment will need to be used to remove soil and other debris.
  • Step 2: Investigate – There may be cracks or leaks that need to be detected by the contractors before sealing the walls.
  • Step 3: Clean Area – The walls need to be power washed to remove any loose concrete.
  • Step 4: Apply Sealant – This step requires the application of high-strength hydraulic cement to fix any cracks and strengthen any weak surfaces.
  • Step 5: Install membrane – A heavy coat of membrane is required to seal the foundation wall against water from outside. The rubberized asphalt finish will help fill any cracks or additional holes.
  • Step 6: Drainage Mat – This step provides extra protection against rotting and can ease lateral pressure against the foundation.
  • Step 7: Second Coat of Membrane – In some cases, a second layer of the membrane may be required to shield the foundation.
  • Step 8: Set Up Drain – A weeping tile system is required to drain off water.
  • Step 9: Fill with Gravel – The area needs to be backfilled with gravel, after which the contractors will pour cement within specific measurements.

What are the Benefits of Waterproofing Your Basement?

Protection from water damage and improved air quality due to less mould around the house are major plus points of basement waterproofing. But there are some other benefits to it as well.

  • Waterproofed floors are easier to maintain
  • The value of your home will rise if your basement is finished
  • Humidity will be lower
  • You can rent out the basement
  • There will be more space in your home

What Else Can You Do to Protect Your Basement?

While waterproofing is one of the best ways to protect your home from or after water damage, it isn’t all you can do. Often, when people think of basements, they automatically picture a laundry room or storage place. But, a basement can be an essential part of your home where you can live peacefully every day.

You can ensure that your basement is in good condition by checking up on it frequently. Consulting a professional once a year to check moisture levels, vapour barriers, or sump pumps can be helpful.

What Are Some Other Ways to Improve Air Quality?

Digging deep into the issue and solving it from its room is the best way to tackle a problem. However, solutions such as waterproofing your basement to improve your home can be a lengthy task. During the process, you can use alternative methods to maintain your health.

If the water damage causes air pollution, consider inspecting your air ducts and cleaning it up if it appears to have visible dust or debris on them. You can also purchase a humidifier to purify the air in your home.

What’s the Bottom Line?

Maintaining a house can be challenging, so it is essential to have routine safety checks with the help of professionals to ensure safety. A professional who has been around for a long time should handle significant tasks like waterproofing. Contact NTL Contracting to discuss your options and get a head start.