5 Tips to Maintain Your Basement Waterproofing System

February 15, 2024

Share this article

Subject to the whims of weather and time, every basement can fall victim to the relentless moisture invasion. Even the most well-built homes can succumb to this silent perpetrator, leading to a damp and musty basement that feels more like a subterranean swamp than part of a home. 

At Now Dry in Fenton, MI, we believe every homeowner deserves a dry, welcoming, and functional basement, no matter the season. Understanding the cause of wet basements and how to maintain a robust waterproofing system can transform your basement into a dry, comfortable living space for years.


Top 4 Reasons for Water in Your Basement

Diagnosing the underlying problem is the first step toward a successful waterproofing solution. Here are common causes of basement water problems:


Cracks in the Foundation Walls

Tiny fractures in your foundation due to external stressors, such as settling, hydrostatic pressure, or freeze/thaw cycles, can allow water to permeate. As the cracks widen, the problem escalates.


Poor Drainage During Heavy Rain

Improper drainage causes water accumulation near your foundation, leading to seepage. Downspouts dumping water directly next to the house or poor lawn grading that slopes toward the foundation are usually responsible.


High Water Table

A high groundwater level around your home exerts outward pressure (hydrostatic pressure) on your foundation, pushing water through any cracks and crevices.


Leaking & Burst Pipes

Overlooked cracks or loose fittings in pipes can lead to significant water damage over time. Minor leakage or condensation often goes unnoticed until the problem escalates.


Tips for Taking Care of Your Basement Waterproofing System

After addressing these root causes, installing a waterproofing system is your next defense against a wet basement. However, investing in a system isn't enough. Regular maintenance is critical to keep your waterproofing system functioning. Here are some tips:


Routine Inspection

Schedule bi-annual inspections to identify and fix potential problems early. Issues to look for include new cracks, sealant failures, leaks around penetrations, clogged drains, or sump pump failures.


Clear All Drains

Regularly clean window well drains, footer drains, downspouts, and gutters. Blockages can lead to water back-up and potential flooding.


Reapply Sealants & Coatings

Most waterproofing materials last 3-5 years before they require re-application. Routinely check for signs of wear like cracking or peeling and promptly recoat those areas.


Service Your Sump Pump Annually

Ensure that your pump (and backup unit, if available) plus battery are in optimal working condition. Regularly test the pump's operation to ensure it turns on at the correct water levels.


Resolve Exterior Drainage Issues

Enhancing outdoor drainage and steering water away from the base of your house is critical in preventing long-term basement flooding.


Understand the Perks of Basement Waterproofing

Working with Now Dry's basement waterproofing specialists in Fenton, MI, brings advantages beyond simple water protection. Our team of basement waterproofing specialists brings a deep understanding of the unique challenges of local soil conditions and climate. With their extensive knowledge, they diagnose the root causes of your basement water problem, be it cracks in the foundation, poor drainage, high water table, or leaking pipes. Besides laying out sound, customized waterproofing solutions to safeguard your home, they educate homeowners, providing rich insights into understanding the problem and preventive measures.

What sets Now Dry apart is our customer-focused approach. We don't just install a waterproofing system and leave you to it. We're there for you long after the job is done, assisting with regular maintenance check-ups on your sump pump and ensuring your waterproofing system keeps your basement dry for years.


Working With Now Dry’s Team of Waterproofing Specialists:

  • Lifetime Warranty
  • Licensed and Fully Insured
  • Quality Crews
  • Cutting Edge Technology
  • Reliable Solutions
  • Seamless Support


Investing a little effort in regular inspection and maintenance can reward you with a basement waterproofing system that keeps your home dry and comfortable for years. Immediate responses to identified problems can also save costly repairs due to significant water damage.


At Now Dry in Fenton, MI, we're committed to offering effective basement waterproofing solutions. Reach out today at (855) 669-3791, and let's work together to keep your basement dry and protected for the long haul.


Recent Posts

A failing sump pump in a flooded Michigan basement during a heavy rainstorm.
April 16, 2026
If your sump pump failed during heavy rain, act fast to prevent basement flooding. Learn the 5 emergency steps Michigan homeowners should take right now to protect their homes.
October 23, 2023
Your basement should not be synonymous with dampness or wetness. In a safe and well-maintained home, a basement should be a dry and habitable extension of your living space. It's important to constantly inspect your basement and if you notice any of the following signs, contact a professional waterproofing team immediately. Water, Dampness, Or Moisture - A well-maintained basement should remain completely dry. Water or moisture within the basement is a glaring red flag that demands immediate att
July 24, 2023
It's common to view your basement as merely a cobweb-ridden storage area. However, the home improvement landscape has seen basement refinishing emerge in recent years as an excellent method for homeowners to add significant value to their homes. The Value of Basement Refinishing - Remodeling your basement can provide your family with a comfortable new living room, a fully-equipped home theater, or even a vibrant bar for entertaining guests. Basement Waterproofing - Waterproofing your basement is
April 28, 2023
The foundation of a home is its most crucial aspect. It supports the entire structure, ensuring your living space is safe, stable, and comfortable. However, foundations can experience damage over time due to various factors such as soil shifting, water damage, and poor construction. 1. Safety Concerns - Your family's safety is in jeopardy with a damaged foundation. A damaged foundation can lead to uneven floors, cracked walls, and even a complete structural collapse. 2. Preserve Your Home's Curb
February 20, 2023
A basement is one of the most important aspects of a home. It provides vital storage space and is the foundation of a safe environment for your family. However, it can lead to expensive repairs if you don't take proper care of your sump pump or waterproofing to keep water out of your basement. Basement waterproofing is an investment in your home's long-term health and safety. When your basement isn't properly waterproofed, water can seep through cracks in your foundation or any other wall openin
March 16, 2018
Downpours can quickly flood your basement and create a real mess. Wading through soggy boxes of books, soaking carpeting, floating dog food bowls and sopping sofas, you might feel paralyzed as to what to do. But don't delay. Experts say you should act quickly to mop up water and repair damage caused by clogged drains, faulty sump pumps or backed-up gutters. Mold can start to grow within a couple of days. Remove water. Get water out as soon as possible. A few inches of standing water can usually
February 27, 2018
Most basements, by the sheer nature of the fact that they are built into the ground, present the possibility that water can intrude, turning what was once a dry basement into a wet basement. This is because water in the soil can put constant pressure on basement walls. Signs of a Damp or Wet Basement Water stains along walls or floor - this could be caused by something simple such as an overflowing laundry tub or it could be a result of water seeping in through basement windows, the walls or the
February 19, 2018
When you purchase a home and move into the space, you may notice water damage or other signs of a problem in the basement. Even if the basement does not have signs of damages or problems with water, it can still feel damp and uncomfortable in the space, making it difficult to live in. To fix this issue, many homeowners opt for basement waterproofing. Leaks and Drips - Normal wear and tear in your home may lead to gradual leaks and drips in your pipes. When you do notice the problem, having a wat
January 17, 2018
Anybody who has dealt with a flooded basement knows why basement waterproofing is important, but many people know exactly what is involved. The truth is, when it comes to basement waterproofing, there's no 'one-size-fits-all' approach. An experienced basement waterproofing contractor will utilize any number of proven methods depending on the cause of the problem and the source of the water. After a comprehensive inspection, a basement waterproofing expert will likely suggest one or more of the f
November 10, 2017
As you can probably imagine, basements are very prone to the intrusion of water. After all, basements are built into the ground. When water intrudes into a basement, the basement goes from a dry basement to a wet basement. Signs of a Damp or Wet Basement The best way to identify whether you have a wet basement is to know and look for the signs. Here are the most common signs of a damp or wet basement: You see water stains along the basement floor or walls. A damp or musty odor - if there is an e
Show More