Today, there are several ways to go about waterproofing a basement. You can install a sump pump, install drain tiles, repair the cracks in your foundation, and more. However, there is one highly effective option that many homeowners are not aware of: downspout extensions.
Are you interested in learning about this basement waterproofing option and what it entails? If so, you’ve come to the right place. This basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois is going to explain below.
What Are Downspout Extensions?
Downspout extensions essentially add length to your downspouts. They’re attached to the ends of downspouts and extend out an additional few feet to a safe distance. This extra length is vital, as it ensures that roof water doesn’t empty directly next to the home’s foundation. Instead, it empties further out into the yard.
This is important for waterproofing purposes, as it reduces hydrostatic pressure against the home’s foundation, and thus results in less foundational cracking. The fewer cracks there are in the home’s foundation, the less water that will seep into the basement on the other side.
Downspout extensions can be installed both over and underground by your basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois. That said, underground extensions are seen as the more permanent option. This is because, once they’re installed, they’re essentially locked in place. You won’t need to adjust them as you sometimes would with overground downspout extensions.
Why Should You Consider Installing Downspout Extensions?
There are several benefits to installing downspout extensions. These include the following:
Keep Foundational Cracking to a Minimum
As noted above, downspout extensions reduce the amount of water that’s allowed to empty by the home’s foundation. The less water there is by the home’s foundation, the less hydrostatic pressure it will be subjected to, and the less susceptible it will be to cracks.
Therefore, if you want to keep foundational cracking to a minimum, it’s wise to consider installing downspout extensions. These, along with other basement waterproofing entities, will help protect your foundation and keep your basement dry.
Combat Water Pooling
Oftentimes, when roof water empties directly next to a home’s foundation, it causes that water to accumulate in one area, which results in a pool of water. Pooling water not only restricts affected parts of yards, but it is also harmful to your grass. Plus, it’s aesthetically displeasing.
Want to get rid of pooling next to your home? If so, you should reach out to your basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois to discuss the possibility of installing downspout extensions. They will ensure that roof water empties further from your home, allowing it to distribute evenly into the soil below.
Avoid Basement Moisture Issues
By reducing instances of foundational cracking, downspout extensions help you avoid all manner of basement moisture issues. This includes everything from flooding to mold growth to musty smells and more. In essence, downspout extensions help make your basement a more habitable place.
Keep in mind, downspout extensions are usually just a part of a larger basement waterproofing system. This may include a sump pump, drain tiles, and more. Do not hesitate to contact your local basement waterproofing company to discuss the possibilities.
Looking for a Basement Waterproofing Company in Riverwoods, Illinois?
Are you interested in installing downspout extensions? If so, and if you’re looking to have them installed by the best basement waterproofing company in Riverwoods, Illinois, ULB-DRY Waterproofing is the top choice.
We provide all types of basement waterproofing services, ranging from downspout installations to yard grading and much more. Regardless of your waterproofing needs, we’re the people to call. Contact us today to get started.