In the Inland Northwest—where Spokane, Coeur d’Alene, and the surrounding areas see damp falls and snowy winters—basements are under constant pressure from moisture. Too often, homeowners skip or delay waterproofing basements, leaving their homes vulnerable. Here are three mistakes to avoid if you want lasting protection.
Mistake 1: Ignoring the Freeze-Thaw Cycle
Fall rains followed by freezing winter nights create one of the biggest threats to basement foundations. Water seeps into tiny cracks, freezes, and expands, turning small gaps into major damage. Waiting until spring to address it means months of hidden problems. Waterproofing your basement in the fall stops this cycle before it can start.
Mistake 2: Assuming Minor Moisture Isn’t a Big Deal
Some homeowners dismiss a damp smell or small patch of condensation as normal. In reality, these are early signs of a basement under stress. Even slight dampness can fuel mold growth, damage stored belongings, and lower your home’s air quality. By taking action now, you prevent these issues from spiraling into costly repairs.
Mistake 3: Choosing Shortcuts Over Professional Solutions
Many coating systems promise fast results in just one day. The problem? They skip the critical moisture-mitigating primer coat that ensures adhesion. Without this step, coatings often peel or fail within months. At Garage Floor Coating of the Inland Northwest, we protect your home with a 2-day process built for long-term success:
- Day 1: Deep-Bonding Epoxy Base Coat – A 100%-solids, moisture-mitigating epoxy base coat penetrates slowly and deep into the concrete, creating permanent adhesion and delivering crucial moisture mitigation.
- Day 1 (Cont’d): Your selected flake blend is broadcast into the base coat.
- Day 2: Clear Coat Protection – A low-VOC, low-odor clear coat completes the system with anti-slip texture, a sleek finish, and decades of durability. Add a full flake design, and your basement is both resilient and attractive.
Protect Your Inland Northwest Basement This Season
By avoiding these mistakes and making waterproofing basements part of your fall home checklist, you safeguard your foundation, protect your air quality, and add value to your property.
Contact Garage Floor Coating of the Inland Northwest today to schedule your consultation and ensure your basement is ready for the seasons ahead.