Lancaster County Basement Waterproofing Tips and Solutions

Nestled among rolling hills, charming farmland, and numerous waterways, Lancaster County is a southeastern Pennsylvania gem. While it has so much to offer, this area could reach its full potential by conquering prevalent problems like water-damaged homes and a housing crisis.

Everyone deserves to live in a safe home, but thousands of Lancaster County residents struggle with homelessness, securing affordable housing, and paying to upkeep the area’s aging and often leaking dwellings.

This article delves into these critical issues in Lancaster County and provides tips to conquer a wet basement and contribute to the development of sustainable housing.

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Lancaster County Housing Issues

More than 550,000 estimated people live in cities and towns including Lancaster, Neffsville, and Roseville throughout Lancaster County. As the county’s population steadily increases, so do the housing demand and cost of housing.

The Housing Availability in the City of Lancaster and Implications for Housing Affordability report listed several key findings, including:

The opportunities to increase housing supply are limited.
Housing cost burden is widespread reflecting the income profile of City residents.

Lancaster County and City residents tend to spend nearly 30% of their income on rent or mortgage, prompting local organizations to take action to address affordable housing.

While the Lancaster County Housing and Redevelopment Authorities work together to provide vital services including assistance to low-income families and those experiencing homelessness, cities still feel the strain. For example, the City of Lancaster declared a state of emergency to address the homeless shelter crisis in November 2024.

Aging Structures and Affordable Housing in Lancaster County

Structural age and condition also impact housing. For example, many homes in the 17601 Lancaster County zip code were built in the 1980s. As homes age, their foundations and building materials grow susceptible to damage, particularly from moisture.

These homes comprise a large portion of affordable housing, making their maintenance crucial for maintaining affordable housing options. Neglecting foundation and moisture problems can result in additional structural damage, rendering homes unsafe or too expensive to fix, thus diminishing the supply of affordable housing.

Common Signs of Moisture Damage

Lancaster County homes can exhibit various forms of moisture damage, including:

Wet Basement Causes and Effects

Moisture problems can originate from many sources, including the weather. Water from Mother Nature creates further water and problems with damage.

Lancaster receives more than an average of 60 inches of annual precipitation (42.81 inches of rainfall and 18 inches of snowfall). The area is also home to many creeks and sits close to the Susquehanna River.

Cities along the Susquehanna Basin are particularly prone to flooding. Not only does this impact travel, often covering roadways, but the rising waters can easily inundate yards and homes’ basements. It’s important to be ready for the next big rain or flood event, and sump pump flooding can also result if these essential appliances are old, undersized, or damaged.

When problems arise in your home, prompt repairs are essential, no matter what caused them. Delayed maintenance leads to escalating issues that compromise safety, functionality, and property value. In extreme cases, homes can deteriorate to the point where they become unlivable, reducing Lancaster County’s available housing stock.

How Basement Waterproofing Impacts Your Home and Lancaster County Housing

You may feel like you’re just one person, but there are steps you can take to not only benefit your home but the local housing issue, as well:

crew waterproofing a basement with interior drainage and a sump pump

Add Waterproofing in Basement Areas

Effective home moisture control starts with comprehensive basement waterproofing, including interior drainage systems, sump pumps, wall vapor barriers, and dehumidifiers. These protective basement sealing and waterproofing measures prevent destructive moisture accumulation that can lead to rot and mold growth. As an added benefit, proper moisture management improves your home’s energy efficiency, reducing monthly utility costs.

wall repair installed with basement waterproofing solutions

Ensure Time-Sensitive Home Maintenance

Address water damage and foundation issues immediately to prevent worsening problems. Professional waterproofing and foundation repairs enhance your home’s structural integrity while improving energy efficiency by eliminating unwanted air and water penetration.

Basement Space Optimization

A properly waterproofed basement opens up possibilities for additional living space. Consider converting your basement into a guest suite or accessory dwelling unit (ADU). While this alone won’t solve broader housing challenges, it provides valuable living space within the community.

Your Impact on Lancaster County Housing

Your basement waterproofing and home maintenance decisions contribute to the larger housing landscape in several ways, including:

Property Value Protection: Regular maintenance and repairs safeguard homeowner equity. This investment protection strengthens both personal financial stability and local housing market health.
Housing Availability: Proactive foundation maintenance helps preserve Lancaster’s existing housing stock, ensuring more families have access to safe, stable homes.

Trust Baker’s Waterproofing for Professional Basement Waterproofing Solutions

Baker's Waterproofing inspector meeting with homeowners

While home repairs provide immediate personal benefits, they also strengthen community well-being through improved neighborhood stability. Baker’s Waterproofing brings 50 years of expertise to Lancaster County and Pennsylvania homeowners. Our customized solutions include comprehensive warranties to protect your investment and prevent future repair costs. Contact us today to schedule your free inspection and learn more about protecting your home.

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Basement Waterproofing FAQs

What causes water to enter my basement?

Water can enter your basement through cracks in the walls or floor, leaking joints, porous concrete, plumbing leaks, or appliance leaks. Improper landscaping or gutters can also cause water to pool around your foundation. Contact Baker’s Waterproofing for a free inspection to identify the source of your leaks and recommend repairs.

Is a wet basement a big deal?

A wet basement is a significant problem that can lead to mold growth, wood rot, decreased property value, and potential health risks for your family. It should never be ignored or considered a minor issue.

How much does it cost to fix a wet basement?

The cost of basement waterproofing varies depending on the size of your basement, the extent of the work required, and the specific solutions needed. Baker’s Waterproofing will provide you with a detailed estimate for customized solutions during your free inspection.

Related Resources

A Wet Basement Guide: Causes, Effects, & Fixes

Struggling with a wet basement? Learn the causes and how your home can benefit from professional basement waterproofing services.

5 Things to Know Before Putting Carpet in Your Basement

Carpet in your basement can make the space more inviting, but does it belong in a damp area? Learn the pros and cons of basement carpeting.

homeowners looking at their home's exterior

Selling A House With A Wet Basement

A wet basement can impact your asking price and home value when selling your house. Learn more and how Baker's Waterproofing can help.

7 Ways to Avoid A Wet Basement After Heavy Rain

Heavy rains can cause leaks and require wet basement repair. Learn what works and what doesn’t to keep your basement dry.

Holly Richards-Purpura

Content Writer

Holly is a Content Writer for Groundworks who has written and edited web content for the foundation services industry for 10 years. With a background in journalism, her passion for the written word runs deep. Holly lives in Columbus, OH, with her husband. Along with educating homeowners, she also has a big heart for the Big Apple.