Water making its way into the basement is always a problem. When a home’s sublevel is exposed to dampness or groundwater, the household can experience foul odors, growing mold, and the possibility of structural deterioration.
Fortunately, Lancaster homeowners have the means to battle the moisture with basement waterproofing. The basement waterproof cost in Lancaster will depend on many variables and is based on different techniques.
The property owner must decide on waterproofing from the exterior or interior, the products they prefer, if there is a need to excavate, and many other decisions to receive an adequate quote and a sufficient budget. The process is a complex one that should be left to professional contractors.
Advantages of an Unfinished Basement can be numerous in such situations. An unfinished basement provides easier access for waterproofing measures, allowing contractors to work more efficiently without the need to navigate around finished walls or flooring.
Additionally, addressing waterproofing issues in an unfinished basement can potentially save on renovation costs in the long term, as it prevents water damage to future renovations.
Let’s look more in-depth at basement waterproofing and the considerations to help with a more informed decision.
Factors Contributing to the Cost of Basement Waterproofing in Lancaster
Many people take advantage of basement waterproofing to avoid the possibility of groundwater and moisture making its way into the sublevel of their property. The extensive damage a wet basement can create makes the investment in waterproofing valuable.
Learn how basement waterproofing works for walls and floors at https://www.hgtv.com/design/remodel/interior-remodel/sealing-basement-walls-and-floors.
The cost of basement waterproofing varies from one contractor to the next. Still, aside from the provider, quite a few variables factor into the price point, making it necessary for a home inspection and property owner decisions for a clear-cut price point.
On average, the range can start at roughly $5000. A significant part of the cost is related to the contractor doing the waterproofing.
These professionals have extensive knowledge and experience, proper tools, and the capacity to do the job thoroughly and adequately the first time, meaning it will last. A homeowner will only want the work performed by a professional. Let’s look at other factors that play into the cost.
● The size and layout of the space
A large basement will take considerably more material and significantly more time and labor than one of a smaller size. Layout can sometimes be factored in, but it’s not as much of an issue as square footage.
A basement of 500 square feet would range at roughly $2500 on the low end of the scale, while a 2000 square foot basement would come in at $10,000, again on the low end of the price point. For the highest range, these would be $5,000 and $20,000.
● Whether sealing from the exterior vs. the interior will play a part in the cost
The basement walls can be spared from water penetration either from the exterior or the interior by sealing the surfaces. With exterior waterproofing, the foundation is exposed by digging the ground down below grade level and coating the surface to protect it with waterproofing material.
Exterior sealing is exceptionally more costly due to the amount of labor and equipment and how time-intensive the process is. It’s also likely the best way to prevent water from entering the basement.
The interior walls receive an application of waterproof sealant when this is the choice for prevention.
● Types of sealants
Basement wall waterproofing involves one of three different sealant types. These can include epoxy, acrylic, or silicate, each of which comes at different costs, with acrylic being relatively budget-friendly. The material is not only affordable, but the process is comparable to the traditional painting process.
The contractor will spray the material with silicate, which is a little more challenging but still within a reasonably good price point. Epoxy is the most expensive of the three, with the most labor involved.
However, using an exterior waterproofing membrane is exceptionally expensive. The level of expertise to apply the adhesive is extensive, but, again, this boasts the highest quality as far as effectiveness. It undoubtedly requires professional-level servicing.
● Labor is a primary factor with cost when considering basement waterproofing
A primary factor with basement waterproofing is the labor since much of it requires extensive ability, especially with the exterior waterproofing membrane.
The professionals come with adequate tools, experience in the industry, and thorough knowledge of each method so the project is completed with a degree of permanence.
● Added considerations
Unexpected or added costs, like the basement’s condition, can be a factor when determining the overall waterproofing cost. Usually, extra material is needed for block wall foundations, but there’s also a need to address issues with foundations that are in rough condition before these can be waterproofed.
A home’s age, basement repairs that need to be handled and tasks that need to be taken care of to keep water from reaching the basement walls all contribute to the price.
The more that pertains to a property, the greater the overall expense for the treatment will be. Go here for other methods of waterproofing a basement.
Do You Need a Waterproofed Basement
In some cases, basements are fine without having full-on waterproofing; instead, they receive “damp-proofing.” This method can keep the basement dry.
But if you’re uncertain, there are signs to pay attention for, particularly if you see stains on the floors or walls. This is an indication that there was standing water present.
If there’s discoloration on “wood surfaces, drywall, carpeting,” this will tell you that the water rose to cause problems and mold growth is a high possibility. It’s essential to check for foul, musty smells. These signs speak to the fact that waterproofing is warranted instead of damp-proofing.
Before considering the idea of finishing a basement, first, it’s crucial to resolve water problems in the basement. When you can prevent water from getting to the basement, plus waterproof the walls, you’ll then have a safer environment, a dry atmosphere to consider finishing it into a livable space.
Further, having the home inspected by a basement waterproof expert is wise. These experts can help decide where the water is coming from and the most effective method and products for sealing. The contractors are skilled in repairs and intricate applications, ensuring successful results that last.
A homeowner shouldn’t handle waterproofing a basement as a do-it-yourself project. There are too many factors and complexities involved. It’s essential to have a basement protected from water invasion but to do so professionally.
