Does your basement smell like mildew? Mold grows where standing water collects, so if your basement smells worse than normal, don't ignore it. Jaco Waterproofing, a basement and foundation repair contractor serving the greater Cincinnati and Dayton areas, has a lot of experience with waterproofing and sump pump repair. If you suspect you may have a leak, call Jaco Waterproofing for an inspection. When water enters your basement, there's a lot that can go wrong!

So what's wrong with basement leaks? Water wreaks havoc in many ways. High humidity can cause walls to warp and collapse. Mold growth due to water damage is destructive and dangerous to inhale. And water leaks are bad for any electrical wiring in your basement. Most housing infrastructure is meant to keep water out, but when it has been compromised, the potential for structural damage greatly increases. Waterproofing will prevent water from seeping into your home through the basement.

Some of the most common causes of basement leaks include:

• Window Cracks: If you smell mold or see water damage, check all basement windows. If they aren't properly sealed, water can easily enter after a large rainfall.

• Ground Water: Heavily saturated ground soil can affect a poorly sealed basement, causing cracks, erosion, and warping. Water can also seep up from the basement floor if it's already cracked.

• Overloaded Gutters: Clogged gutters have a negative effect on your basement and foundation health, as overflowing water will not drain where it is supposed to. Keep your gutters clean and make sure downspouts drain water away from your basement.

• Broken Sump Pump: Is your sump pump doing its job properly? If it breaks or loses power during a storm, that's bad for your basement. 

Jaco Waterproofing can perform expert waterproofing on your basement to prevent these types of water leaks. They also fix sump pump issues and will advise you on backup options in case it breaks again.

Servicing Cincinnati, Dayton, and northern Kentucky, Jaco Waterproofing performs basement and foundation repair, waterproofing, and sump pump services. To schedule your basement waterproofing appointment, call (513) 738-0084. Visit them online for more information.