If you have decided to remodel, you may also want to include the basement. This is a vital part of the house that is mostly forgotten until a need arises. If kept in good condition, a basement can create extra storage, extra room for entertainment, home office, living room, and such. This part of the house forms the foundation. Hence, it is vital to keep it in good condition. If you have a renovation project which involves the basement, here are common basament problems you are likely to face.
Common basement problems: Cracked Walls
The basement is essential to the integrity of the structure. However, if the house is old, you may find issues like cracked walls, which could mean an unstable foundation. Walls are made from different materials. The common ones in older buildings are stone and brick, while you may find concrete and cinder in newer houses. You need a strong foundation, which is why you must take good care of the basement walls. Seal the cracks and look for the origin of the problem. It is the only way to guarantee your structure is standing on a firm foundation.
Water Damage
Water damage is another common issue with the basement. It is always a sign of a severe issue that needs quick fixing. Look for signs of water stains left after the water has dried. You can also check if the wooden studs are rotting. It is crucial to fix the issue of water damage once and for all to avoid dealing with significant issues later. Remember to call for basement waterproofing services to provide peace of mind and ensure you have a strong structure.
Rodent Problem
Since the basement is usually neglected and used to store odd stuff, it creates a home for animals and rodents. Rats find warm places to live, and if not taken care of, the infestation may spread to the rest of the house. Therefore, if you notice a rat problem in the basement, consider calling rodent control to help get rid of t problem. The best thing about professional rodent control is that the experts fix the problem permanently and provide ways of protecting the house from rodents. Pests like termites can also cause severe structural damage. Therefore, call professionals to get rid of this problem permanently.
Common basement problems: Exposed Wiring
You might also find exposed wiring on the ceiling or through the walls. You should confirm that you leave the wires in good condition and tuck them in. exposed electrical wires can be the beginning of a house fire. So, check the fuse boxes to ensure they are up-to-date and seal any exposed wire that the rodents might have gnawed.
Outdated Plumbing
If you renovate an old house, you may come across outdated plumbing. You will mostly find iron or steel pipes that require to be replaced with plastic or copper pipes to reduce contamination. If you are considering adding a bathroom in the basement, it may be best to configure the plumbing issues first and fix them. Find the best plumber. They will help you fix the issues.
To Wrap It Up
It is crucial to address any problem you come across during basement renovation. Consider a basement inspection first to understand the problem and what needs to be done to turn the basement into a practical room.
Photo by charlesdeluvio on Unsplash
