A basement can be a storage area, laundry room, but it can also be a recording room, a photography studio, or any other room when it is finished. Most homes in Etobicoke have basements, with some of the older ones posing a threat to those living in the properties. Some of the newer houses may also have basement issues like water leaks or excessive dampness that exposes those living in them to danger. These issues are easily preventable when you work with Direct Waterproofing. Some of the signs of danger you may come across include:
Decaying beams
Wooden support beams are susceptible to warping when constantly exposed to moisture in the basement. With time, the wood will rot as the dampness increases. When discovered and sorted out in time, the problem will not be very dangerous. However, if it goes unnoticed for too long, it could endanger the overall house structure, and subsequently, the people living in the house.
Presence of black mould
Mould and other fungi can damage the surfaces they grow on, with black mould posing more health risks than other types. This type of mould can grow on open surfaces, but sometimes, it hides behind walls. Regardless of where it grows, its level of toxicity to humans does not reduce.
Contact a mould removal and remedial professional to inspect the walls and determine the type of fungi growing there. Waterproofing or renovation companies may lack the expertise you need to deal with mould growth, but if they have a lot of experience, they may be able to help.
Insect breeding
A wet or dirty basement is bound to attract insects, which will end up attracting more animals. Some types, like termites and carpenter ants, can end up reaching and destroying the support beams. Spiders are also common in basements, and in rare cases, birds can build nests inside. If some insects are already present, exterminate them immediately.
Basement flooding
Other than promoting the growth of fungi, flooding in the basement can cause a lot of other problems, like coming in contact with electrical wires. The walls and other valuables in the basement can also be damaged, especially if it is a finished space with many usable pieces of equipment. Some items can absorb the moisture and start to rot or dampen, leading to mould growth and insect invasion.
To avoid flooding, inspect the basement regularly and take note of cracks and other areas likely to allow water in. Make sure the plumbing is working correctly, and rainwater is drained away from the foundation.
Collapsing walls
If bowing walls are not repaired in time, the entire section can end up collapsing and putting every person in danger. The basement foundation walls support the entire house, which means that if they are compromised, the whole house could be in danger.Contact Direct Waterproofing if you have any of these problems. The level of professionalism you will get from these service providers will keep your basement in perfect condition for a long time and ensure your family stays safe.
