Four Possible Issues That Can Result from DIY Basement Waterproofing | Mentor, OH
Have you spotted some cracks in your basement? Perhaps you’ve noticed a dump must smell in your basement. You may even have woken up to a flooded basement. Whatever the case, you may be tempted to handle basement waterproofing on your own.
Saving money is the main motivator for many DIYers. However, many who go down this route find that they are actually not able to save money this way. They actually end up spending much more as a result of the problems that arise from their inexperience.
The following are some common problems that can arise from DIY basement waterproofing.
- Leaking window well
Installing a basement window isn’t as simple as installing other windows around the home. Not only are there special regulations and standards to adhere to, but also several steps to take to ensure the window is waterproof.
An improperly installed window well will result in pooling of water and eventual leaking into the basement. This may result in flooding and damage of your property. Recovering from this can be expensive.
- Health issues
If your efforts to waterproof your basement aren’t successful, they can result in moisture problems within the basement. These include mold infestations.
Mold spores have been linked to various health issues including worsening of allergies. If you want to avoid putting the health of your household at risk, consider leaving the job to the professionals.
- Wall cracks
It’s important to ensure cracks in the foundation are sealed as soon as possible. Even cracks that aren’t leaking can begin to leak eventually and cause a moisture problem.
Basement waterproofing involves more than simply sealing cracks. It involves finding the root cause of the cracks. Failing to do so will only result in bigger cracks.
- Structural issues
Many inexperienced homeowners apply band-aid solutions to waterproofing their homes. These solutions are often only cosmetic.
While these solutions may work for a while, they do not address the underlying problems. If the root cause of a foundation issue goes unresolved, it is likely to get worse with time. You may therefore end up having to deal with serious structural problems that will be more expensive to resolve.
The takeaway
Basement waterproofing isn’t a DIY job. It’s a job that should be left to an experienced and qualified professional contractor. If you attempt to do the waterproofing by yourself, you will most likely end up having to do expensive repairs.
Contact Ohio State Waterproofing today! (330) 467-1055

Ohio State Waterproofing has provided quality service with over 80,000 successful waterproofing and foundation repair installations and satisfied customers since our inception in 1978.
Ohio State Waterproofing’s philosophy for success is to provide honest, courteous and guaranteed service to every customer. Our reputation reflects this. Our well-trained waterproofing technicians are dedicated to complete customer satisfaction. This is achieved through fast, efficient processes as well as teamwork throughout this organization. You will always find a friendly representative willing to meet your needs at Ohio State Waterproofing.
We are a full service company that handles problems ranging from patching cracks to rebuilding basements. In addition, we hold three patents related to waterproofing that make us unique in the industry. These patents and our experience allow us to be able to do what every other waterproofer can do, but no one else can do what we do.
We are actively involved in the industry and community, including the National Association of Waterproofing Contractors, BHA, NARI, NAHB, NHIA, the BIA, the FHA and a number of consumer advocacy groups, as well as playing leading roles in a number of charitable functions.
But, most importantly, our highest degree of praise comes from the thousands of referrals we get from satisfied customers. Together they’ve made us a leader in the basement waterproofing and foundation repair industry.