Basements make variety of space options

Looking for extra space in your home? Head down to the basement. Basements can provide added space for exercise rooms, media rooms, workshops -- even extra bedrooms. So why are they not always used? Basements can be damp and leaky. And damp, leaky basements can create the perfect conditions for the growth of mold and mildew, which can be smelly, ugly and difficult to keep in check.

But it's easy to reclaim your basement -- and transform it into beautiful living space -- with state-of-the-art products and a few "tips" from the experts at ZINSSER.

Reclaim your leaky basement --Excessive moisture can make a basement unusable. It also can cause structural rot and decay, promote the growth of mold and mildew and create high humidity levels throughout your home. That's why water problems should be taken care of immediately.

Fortunately, it's easy to keep water out -- and keep mold and mildew away -- by applying two coats of a waterproofer with mold and mildew protection, like WATERTITE(R) Mold & Mildew-Proof* Waterproofing Paint. Backed by a Lifetime Waterproofing Guarantee, WATERTITE stops up to 34 pounds of water pressure -- twice the strength of latex waterproofers -- and is guaranteed to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film for up to five years.

WATERTITE can be applied to wet or dry walls, so water problems can be cured immediately. It's low odor, easy to use and dries to a smooth, non-gritty, bright white finish.

DID YOU KNOW?...

Depending on where you live in the country (especially if you rely on well water), you could have hard water. Hardness, also called "calcium hardness," refers to the amount of dissolved minerals (mostly calcium and magnesium) in a body of water. Hard water can be potentially damaging to your plumbing and home appliances. The minerals build up and cause scaling -- crusty deposits -- inside pipes and items like washing machines and dishwashers. This can result in decreased water flow and malfunction of the appliances. A water-softening system can remedy the problem. Visit a home-improvement retailer to learn more.

Tip from the Pros: Apply WATERTITE to concrete floors before installing carpeting, tile or linoleum to prevent groundwater from seeping through and ruining your new flooring.

Prevent the growth of mold and mildew in finished basements -- Finished basements also need protection against mold and mildew to keep looking beautiful. PERMA-WHITE(R) Mold & Mildew-Proof* Interior Paint is guaranteed to prevent the growth of mold and mildew on the paint film for five years. This low-odor, bright white durable paint can be tinted to off-white, pastel and medium tone colors to enhance any decor. Plus, PERMA-WHITE is available in beautiful, long lasting satin, semi-gloss and eggshell finishes. Tip from the Pros: Remember to remove mold & mildew from the surface before starting any paint project.

For more information on WATERTITE, PERMA-WHITE and other products for the long-term prevention of mold and mildew, contact ZINSSER at 732-469-8100. Or, visit zinsser.com for more helpful home improvement tips.