January 12, 2017

Rain is great for your garden or as some relief from the summer heat, but it can mean disaster if you have a leaking basement. Those homeowners who spend a lot of time watching DIY videos online may think that preventing your basement from leaking is rather easy.

While there are some tips you can try for yourself to improve conditions, more serious cases will definitely require the assistance of professionals who can waterproof your basement to prevent future problems from occurring. Clean Out Your Gutters When clogged gutters start to overflow water can pool up around your foundation. Remove debris including leaves and install leaf guards and downspout extenders so water will be directed at least 10 feet away from your home's basement. Modify Your Yard's Grade If you aren't an experienced gardener or landscaper, you may not pay much attention to your lawn's grade and slope. Improper grading could result in water pooling around your home or even flowing toward it, which is the last thing you want if your basement tends to leak. You can add soil to ensure the grade is the highest around your home's perimeter which will direct water away from your basement. Pay Attention to Trees You may enjoy the benefits of shade trees in your yard, but did you realize that these trees have aggressive roots, and should be planted no less than 20 feet from your home to protect its foundation? For smaller species such as white firs, about 10 to 15 feet of clearance is required, so be sure to do your homework if you're putting in new trees. Basement Waterproofing in Upstate New York A damp or wet basement is a surefire sign that your underground room is leaking. The trained professionals at Everdry Waterproofing of Upstate New York have several things they can do to both the interior and exterior of your basement to make it waterproof and keep it that way for good. Ensuring that your home's basement is waterproof is very important for the following reasons:

• Prevents mold from growing, which could cause major health problems for your family
• Protects your belongings, including valuables and precious memories, from being ruined due to flooding or water damage
• Keeps your home's foundation intact, avoiding shifting which can cause cracks and bowing which can lead to serious structural damage
• Thwarts unwelcomed pests who are attracted to damp conditions from eating at your home and causing health risks

Learn more about our basement waterproofing systems in Buffalo, Rochester, and Syracuse today. Call us at 1-800-733-5360 for a FREE inspection.