Wet basements are typically the result of a compromised foundation. Water seeps through cracks in the foundation and while these cracks are not exactly immediately dangerous to your home, they can cause major problems if they are left alone for a long time — say, a decade. This is why complete foundation repair is a major step. This is achieved by the process of sealing a leaking basement wall.
Internal Sealing
A sealant is used in this process; a narrow hollow tube (much like a straw) is used to spray the substance into the cracks and it turns into a thick and waterproof foam when it gets in contact with water. Experts understand that the best time to do so is when the cracks are dry (although arrangements can be made if the foundation is still wet and you need to get the task done as soon as possible). The foam would be activated by spraying a small amount of water on the area.
Now, you might think that as soon as the cracks are filled and there are no more leaks, you are good to go, but that’s not it. It’s possible for the basement to get all wet again and it’s because concrete is naturally porous. Waterproofing paint will have to be applied on the surface and in some cases, an interior membrane between the inner walls and the concrete would be recommended.
Temperature Considerations
The flooring and the temperature control factors would also need consideration while going for a basement remodeling. If the floor is made of concrete, then you have to ensure that proper basement waterproofing is done to keep the moisture and damp away. At the same time there should be a provision for floor heating and the walls should be perfectly sealed.
New Basements Vs. Remodel
Things are however a lot easier if one is opting for basement remodeling rather than constructing a new one. Remodeling the basement is an equally challenging job and more so it is creative too. One has a lot of options at hand. For instance, partitions can be used in the wide open space to divide it into rooms. At the same time you can use a lot of color themes and patters to create the environment that you want.
While these can be handled in the initial phases, one of the tough challenges associated with basement remodeling is the height of the ceiling. If the existing basement ceiling is a low one, then you might have to consider whether that will be sufficient for you or not. In certain cases, covering or removing the ducts might also be required.
The last considerable factor in case of basement construction or a remodeling is lighting. Since basements are dark, proper lighting arrangements should be made in advance. If there is no window, then one should be incorporated at the time of construction or remodeling. A basement construction or remodeling is not done just for the sake of it. There is a purpose behind it and all the minute factors should be considered prior to the beginning of the project.
Mold Removal
After making sure that the basement is properly sealed, the mold removal professionals would have to do something about the damage alreahdy done. Of course, you would have to replace the damaged parts yourself but the experts can remove and get rid of materials contaminated by mold; they can also clean and disinfect the surfaces (the process of applying disinfectant is usually optional though). The experts could also give you tips on how to deal with mold. Note that with the humid nature of the basement, mold is likely to come back so you will have to keep an eye out.
Interior Sealing of Basements is simple and permanent with SANI-TRED