Most people know it’s best to call a plumber when the kitchen sink is leaking, or the toilet backs up, but why call a plumber if your basement floor is wet? According to this article from the New York Times, a majority of homes will have this issue at some point, and flood-prone regions like the Greater Toronto Area are more likely to experience these issues. Precious valuables, appliances such as washers and dryers, and finished rooms are all vulnerable if the water outside finds its way inside.
As unpleasant as these prospects are, they aren’t the most pressing reasons to assure that you have sound barriers to keep the moisture outside. Waterproofing is also important because leaks can lead to structural damage to your home, as water seepage can cause foundations to buckle, crack, and bow. Eventually, if the situation isn’t rectified – that is, if you don’t hire an experienced plumber to amend the problem – the foundation can become unable to support the home. And no homeowner wants that.
A knowledgeable plumbing service can take various approaches to waterproofing: repairing damaged pipes, installing sump pumps and backflow valves, applying moisture barriers, and installing drainage systems for the interior or exterior of your home. These methods will keep the water where it belongs – out of your basement and away from your belongings.
Waterproofing is also important because prolonged leaks can produce toxic mould or present sanitary issues if the water is backing up from your waste system. Either of these problems can lead to serious illness if not addressed and remediated. While you might be tempted to do the work yourself, licensed plumbers are trained and experienced with these issues, and they can often fix the problem on the spot using top-rated tools and parts. This allows you and your family to get back to normal as quickly as possible, and without the added expenses of a longer project.
If it’s time to call a plumber to deal with your leaky pipes or water in your basement, it’s best to trust a professional, reliable plumbing service in your city, because they know how to guard against the specific waterproofing challenges of the area. Your licensed plumber will adhere to the relevant codes and will analyze your situation to create a personalized solution to meet your needs and your budget. Furthermore, you can easily choose the best ones by taking cues from online reviews.
In most cities, including this one, there is a flood subsidy program that offers a rebate for the installation of backwater valves and sump pumps. Your professional plumbing service can assist you in claiming your rebate as well as assuring that your home is waterproof and ready for any weather the winter has to offer. Use this article as a jumping off point to proactively consider what you can – and should – do to keep your valuables from being ruined, keep your house’s structure from warping, and keep nasty mould away from you and your family.
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