Your Quick Guide: Is Basement Waterproofing in Indiana Worth It?

Sharing is caring!

Are you considering basement waterproofing in Indiana? If so, you might be wondering if this service is worth the cost. Homeowners especially might wonder if they should invest in waterproofing if they don’t plan to finish the space.

Soil conditions in Indiana contribute to home foundation issues for a number of reasons. The soil is often clay-based, which makes it moisture-retentive and unstable. This can lead to shifting and sinking foundations as the soil becomes saturated and can no longer support the weight of the home. In addition, the weather in Indiana is highly variable, with severe storms that can cause rapid changes in soil moisture levels. All of these factors make Indiana a challenging place to build a home and many homeowners in the state experience foundation problems as a result.

So, the short answer is yes, basement waterproofing is well worth your investment. This is true even if you’re not planning on finishing the basement. Keep reading to find out why, and then discuss your property with a waterproofing contractor near you.

Is Basement Waterproofing Worth it in Indiana?

Check out some reasons why you should invest in basement waterproofing in Indiana. This information should help you make the right choice for your property!

• Remember that a basement is a structure’s foundation. Also, many contractors will tell you that moisture is the number one enemy of foundation materials. Concrete absorbs moisture, risking cracks and leaks, which leads to a structure settling and sinking.
• Cracks and leaks in a foundation affect a property’s value! In some cases, a property might not even pass an inspection, making it difficult to sell that structure.
• Without waterproofing, moisture often seeps into a basement’s interior. This moisture can mean stagnant odors and insect infestation.
• Moisture seeping into a basement often makes its way to the subflooring along its ceiling. As that framing wood absorbs moisture, it risks cracks and other serious damage.
• Additionally, moisture seeping in from the basement risks mildew forming underneath carpets on the first floors. This can also create musty odors.
• That moisture can also lead to framing wood rot along walls as well as mold growth.
• Even if you don’t finish your basement, note that moisture can damage items stored in the space. This includes household appliances such as a furnace, water heater, clothes washer, and dryer. Without waterproofing, these appliances can soon rust and suffer other costly damage.

On the other hand, note that waterproofing keeps a basement dry and clean, and a foundation strong. You can then safely finish the space or use it for storage. You also avoid mold, mildew, and musty odors throughout interior spaces while protecting your property’s value!

How Much Value Does a Waterproof Basement Add to Your Home?

Investing in waterproofing for your basement is excellent, even if you don’t plan on selling a property. However, you can also expect to receive a return on investment if you decide to put it on the market. In many cases, homeowners might receive about 30% of their cost in terms of increased value.

What does this mean? Simply put, expect your property’s value to increase by about 30% of what you spend on waterproofing. That means $300 for every $1000 you spend. So, if you spent $5000 on waterproofing, your home’s value might increase by $1500.

Of course, homeowners should remember that many benefits of basement waterproofing beyond increased property values. This includes protecting items in the basement and avoiding framing damage. Waterproofing also helps prevent costly, damaging mold growth throughout a home. Your home will also be clean and dry from the ground up!

Cost of Basement Waterproofing Cost

Your basement waterproofing costs vary according to materials chosen and your property’s size. However, you might expect to spend between $5-$10 per square foot for professional services. On average, homeowners usually spend about $4900 for basement waterproofing.

Of course, DIY methods are cheaper than professional services. However, professional waterproofing typically lasts far longer than DIY fixes. Also, a foundation repair contractor can quickly plug cracks and leaks. He or she might also note when a basement needs a sump pump or dehumidifier. In turn, their services ensure that your waterproofing lasts as long as possible.

Does Waterproofing a Basement Really Work?

High-quality waterproofing is very effective at protecting a structure’s basement walls and floors. It also protects finished building materials from long-term damage. Even DIY coatings provide added protection against mold, mildew, and dampness in the basement.

On the other hand, waterproofing isn’t always complete protection against flood damage. If you’re in an area prone to flooding, you might ask your contractor about a sump pump installation. This collects water at a pit and then pumps it away from a structure.

Outside your structure, a French drain installation also provides excellent protection. This drain uses pipes buried just underground to collect moisture in the soil. The pipes then direct that moisture away from a basement, keeping it dry and in good condition.

Call Our Team! We Know How to Waterproof a Basement

Fort Wayne Foundation Repair Experts is happy to provide this information about basement waterproofing in Indiana. Hopefully, you found these tips helpful. If you’re in the area and need expert services, call our Fort Wayne foundation repair contractors. We offer full-scale fixes and high-quality waterproofing. Additionally, we start every project with a FREE inspection. To find out more or to get your property started on the quality services you need to have done, call us right now.