There are a number of entities that you can use to waterproof a basement. One of the lesser known of these entities is the basement waterproofing membrane. While not entirely integral to the dryness and habitability of a basement, it can still make quite a big difference.
Are you interested in learning more about waterproofing membranes? Then you’re in the right place — this Arlington Heights basement waterproofing company has you covered.
What is a Basement Waterproofing Membrane?
A basement waterproofing membrane is essentially like a raincoat for your basement. Waterproof in nature, it prevents groundwater from leaking through cracks in basement walls.
Basement waterproofing membranes generally start as liquids. However, once they’ve been spread on, they dry, turning into solid substances.
Generally speaking, a basement waterproofing membrane will last around 10 years. However, depending on its quality and the materials that it’s made of, it could last shorter or longer.
In What Ways are Basement Waterproofing Membranes Advantageous?
Basement waterproofing membranes offer a number of advantages. We’ll discuss their primary benefits below.
Provide Long-lasting Water Protection
One of the biggest benefits of basement waterproofing membranes is that they provide long-lasting water protection. As was noted above, in most cases, they provide protection for around 10 years.
In contrast, foundation crack repair offers the same type of protection, but for nowhere near as long. Because foundation cracks are always forming on different portions of foundations, they are almost impossible to eliminate entirely for any long period of time. As such, foundation crack repair doesn’t provide long-lasting water protection.
Minimize Foundation Crack Repair
As was noted, cracks are bound to form in your foundation. There’s little you can do to prevent this from happening. For this reason, at a certain point, it becomes necessary for you to repair foundation cracks.
While this need for repair can’t be eliminated, it can be delayed. The key is to install a basement waterproofing membrane. While a basement waterproofing membrane will not prevent foundation cracks from forming, it will prevent them from allowing water through. Therefore, for the duration of the waterproofing membrane’s lifespan, there is less of a need to fix underlying foundation cracks.
That said, once the waterproofing membrane has been removed, it’s wise to repair any cracks before installing a new waterproofing membrane. This is necessary to sure up foundational strength, ensuring that the foundation doesn’t come crumbling down over time.
Add Insulation
Another benefit of basement waterproofing membranes is that they add insulation. By covering foundation cracks, they provide reinforcement against heat and cold, thus improving the energy efficiency of their corresponding homes.
Now, this isn’t to say that they have the same impact as standard home insulation. However, they most certainly make a difference. As such, they can help to keep energy costs low.
Easy to Install
You might be concerned about the waterproofing membrane installation process, thinking that it’s going to take days to complete and require substantial amounts of prep work. However, in truth, the installation process is actually quite simple.
Not only can it be completed in a matter of a few hours, but it requires close to no prep work whatsoever. In fact, you won’t even have to leave your house. In many cases, your waterproofing specialists will make short work of the project, allowing you to maintain full use of your home.
In Need of Basement Waterproofing in Arlington Heights?
Are you interested in installing a basement waterproofing membrane? Looking to hire an Arlington Heights basement waterproofing company? If so, ULB-DRY Waterproofing has you covered.
Our team of experienced waterproofers has installed membranes on countless Arlington Heights area homes. We would be happy to do the same for yours.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment!