Today’s basements are a far cry from what the average American’s basement looked like a decade or two ago. The majority of basements are expertly finished with beautiful craftsmanship, high-end touches, and features like full kitchens, saunas, fitness rooms, and more. Homeowners spend serious amounts of money to create basement living spaces, yet too often these gorgeous Glendale renovations are marred by unforeseen plumbing problems and water leaks.

If you’re considering finishing the basement in your home, here are 3 ways that you can keep leaks out of your basement and preserve your beautiful space.

Hire a Licensed Plumber

There are plenty of DIY-homeowners out there who are skilled with a hammer and saw. Construction talents will save you money on your basement finishing project, but there are some parts of the project that should be handled by licensed professionals. If you’re installing a bathroom, a wet bar, or anything else that involves plumbing, it’s crucial that you hire a licensed plumber in [location]. Installing plumbing incorrectly can lead to leaks, burst pipes, and other problems that can damage your beautiful basement.

Fix Foundation Cracks

Before you install the drywall inspect the interior foundation walls for signs of cracking. As a home settles, a fair amount of hairline cracking along the foundation walls and floor is normal. However, long and deep vertical and, especially, horizontal cracks may indicate a serious issue. Don’t overlook this essential step and call in a foundation specialist to access the situation before you proceed.

Install a Sump Pump

Anyone finishing their basement should not overlook the importance of a sump pump. Sump pumps remove water from the basement and prevent flooding. Many newer homes already come with a sump pump rough-in (a hole in the floor ready for the pump to be inserted), making it cost-effective to install. Even if your basement doesn’t have a sump pump rough-in, it’s a good idea to install a pump system to keep your basement water-tight.

If you live in the Glendale area and are considering finishing your basement, give Glendale Expert Plumbing and Rooter a call and let us help you keep your basement leak-free.