July 5, 2022

What You Can Do to Better Waterproof Your Home

To save money and improve your health in the long run, repair and upgrade your home so it’s waterproofed. Learn more about how to waterproof your home.

No one can control weather patterns or the issues that strong weather has on the home. Nature is an uncontrollable force. However, when serious damage affects your home or the people inside, serious measures need to be enforced to waterproof your home

Water damage can cause a variety of problems, including structural damage, mold, and unwanted vermin. Additionally, water damage can lead to a major repair bill. With this said, hiring a professional may be necessary; here are some of the things that can be done to waterproof your home. 

#1. Foundation 

Nothing stays perfect throughout all time. Consider the foundation of your home, for example. When the solid concrete is first laid, it’s perfect and rock solid—yet, over time, cracks can start to develop. In this case, water can seep into the foundation, leading to much bigger problems. 

To ensure your home’s foundation is up to code, waterproof and damp-proof your basement at the same time. That way, the groundwater won’t seep through the porous concrete—allowing the space to “breathe”. 

#2. Exterior Walls

Paint finishes may be water-resistant, but they aren’t fully waterproof. Prior to a perfect paint job, wrap your home in a plastic sheet—like the home wrap brands Tyvek or Typar. Something to note—homes that are less modern may lack this protection so keep the home’s age in mind when purchasing. 

The good news? You can go back and add plastic wrap to your home, but it will likely run expensive.

#3. Building Flashings 

This small detail might save your home from potential water damage. Building flashings are thin pieces of water-resistant material applied to the joints of a home’s structure. 

External or exposed flashing can be applied at the base of walls, on stills or shelf angles, and many more places on a home’s exterior. This is usually made of sheet metal to ensure that little-to-no water enters the home. 

Internal or concealed flashing catches seeping water that enters the home from the outside. This form of flashing is applied on windows, doors, and window sills. If either of these building flashings is applied incorrectly, expensive repairs or the risk of severe mold damage can occur.

#4. Roof 

The roof is the first line of defense against water damage in your home. Unless you want to break out various pots and bowls to catch the water that drips from your roof (which is less than ideal for obvious reasons), consider calling a professional to seal the holes and cracks. To make sure that no further problems occur, schedule regular inspections to maintain the condition of your roof on your home’s interior and exterior.

#5. Internal Building

Moisture can come from within your home as much as it comes from outside your home. Rooms such as kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms often collect an abundance of moisture. Without proper ventilation, moisture and condensation can build up within walls, which can result in warped doors and frames. Furthermore, sink leaks can easily go unnoticed for days, weeks, and even months. This can result in thousands of dollars of damage and repairs. 

Waterproof Your Home with Help from Shipshape

There are many issues that can come about from uncontrollable weather conditions and in-home water leaks; however, there is an easy-to-use solution to make waterproofing easier on you. Not only can you schedule an appointment with a professional: You can also install our Shipshape technology in your home to get alerted when a problem does arise. 

Got questions? Call us or visit our website here.

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