The importance of sealing basement walls to prevent damp explained

Anyone who owns a property in London which has a basement has lots to think about when it comes to ensuring that it remains in good condition. Because basements are below ground level, they are prone to greater levels of moisture being found in them if not looked after properly. This is especially so in London because of its location, with much of the southeast being built on clay, which retains water and the higher-than-usual water table of the Thames and its many underwater tributaries.

This can lead to extended pressure being put on the walls of a property, leading to cracks forming through which the water seeps. This leads to moisture inside the basement and health hazards being created, as well as damaging the integrity of the structure. Basement waterproofing is likely to be one of the recommended solutions that we suggest when you contact us at London Damp Proofing, as we dispatch a member of our expert team to deliver a free home assessment.

Having a proper barrier in place, with a long-term guarantee on the work, which comes as part of our customer service, will stop rainwater and groundwater from seeping into the building and causing damage. It is important to remember the effect of global warming and the increased chances of flooding, making now the time for sealing basement walls. The added protection will prove to be invaluable over time as the build-up of damp will be avoided, which ensures that the structural integrity of the building remains in place. Those who fail to carry out such measures are likely to face the expensive and inconvenient consequences later.

Fixing basement damp is what we do at London Damp Proofing, but we prefer to help our customers by providing a solution before real problems occur. Concrete and masonry can be weakened when walls in the basement are not sealed properly. This leads to erosion and cracks forming, which can even mean foundation damage, which can be extremely costly to put right, when the quality of the structure can be safeguarded well before then. Mould and mildew may pale into insignificance to some compared to those potential issues, but they should not be taken lightly as they form health hazards which must be taken seriously. A sealed basement, however, nullifies the chances of them developing.

Basement tanking systems are another option that we can provide and may recommend. They can prevent musty smells and odours from developing and thriving, which makes any time spent in the basement unhealthy and unpleasant. There is no need for this when it is possible to create a dry atmosphere, which might allow the basement to be converted into extra living accommodation or office space for those wanting to work from home. Storage is another way that a sealed and dry basement can be utilised, which can free up space upstairs to improve living conditions.

Call us on 0208 226 6330 to have your basement sealed and to increase the value of your property.