basement waterproofing methods

Posted by Earwood on January 6th, 2021

The ideal time to waterproof your basement is when the groundwork is first constructed. This will effectively guarantee that the results and benefits may continue for a longer time. Also, this is the perfect time for waterproofing since it will be much simpler to reach into tiny gaps before they get closed off because of constrictions, like curves and even spots where the drainage system is to be set up.

If you are working with an old home, then you need to examine the basement with an extremely careful inspection prior to choosing how to waterproof it. It would be smart to contact an expert who has the appropriate basement waterproofing information. Using an expert will help you avoid having to perform the work again due to having used improper methods.

There are two procedures to use: the interior basement waterproof methods, and the exterior basement waterproof methods. A common procedure for exterior waterproofing, known as tanking, is the method where a bonding membrane or substance is used on the external walls of the basement. Be certain that the process of tanking happens when your home is being built, particularly if the basement is set underground.

Another procedure to exterior basement waterproof method is known as the outer drainage method. In this process, the basement would be constructed in such manner that its floors slope toward the sump pump of your house. Apply a synthetic honeycomb casing on the floor and walls to remove any wetness from the basement.

The French drain system is another process of exterior basement waterproofing, as well. This mode of waterproofing was typically set up on homes that were built in regions in the country that have heavy rainfall, and other sorts of humidity-based weather. Exterior waterproofing procedures, are the only ones acknowledged by the International Building Code, as sufficiently effective, to keep moisture from doing serious structural damages to a house or a building.

Meanwhile, interior basement waterproof methods are utilized to keep water from working its way to the basement. In order to keep moisture and water from seeping through the basement, apply sealants on the floor and walls. The sealant keeps mildew and molds from growing, as well. Interior sealants are not exactly materials for best results. However, they may help you manage whilst you are still working on different waterproofing procedures. To achieve the best results, try using both the interior and exterior, waterproof methods.

According to helpful basement waterproofing information, it is vital to be sure that you do the waterproofing, as your basement is the foundation of your home. If the basement is not in its finest condition, it may endanger your whole house in due course.

A wet basement is a trouble for every home owner. Be it a wet finished basement or an unfinished basement with damp walls, water is an enemy of your home. It can cause the problem of mold and mildew. Continuous exposure to water can ruin your belongings as well as damage the stability of the foundation and weaken the structure.

If you are troubled by leaking cracks and damp walls in basement, you need expert help of a basement waterproofing contractor.

How does a Basement Waterproofing Contractor take care of a wet basement?

A basement waterproofing contractor will review the basement as well as other areas of Philadelphia Basement Waterproofing your home that require waterproofing. He/she will identify the problem and provide you with a couple of effective methods to take care of it. Also, he/she will suggest you the right wet basement waterproofing method that suits your home.

What are the Different Wet Basement Waterproofing Methods?

1. Sealants

If the water is entering the basement through cracks, the basement waterproofing contractor will seal the cracks and help you get rid of the problem. Special sealant/waterproofing coatings are used to seal the crack and keep off the moisture and water.

It is important to remember that even though sealants are an inexpensive way of addressing the water problem, it is not an ideal solution for a home with strong hydrostatic pressure. The solution is ideal for minor dampness but cannot work for a flooded basement.

2. Crack Injection

Crack injections are ideal for poured concrete foundation. If the basement waterproofing contractor comes to a conclusion that the water seepage is originating from the walls, he/she will use epoxy or polyurethane injections to take care of the cracks.

3. Interior Waterproofing - Drainage System

Most home owners opt for the solution because it is less expensive and doesn't involve exterior excavation. It is also called a "water control" solution because it doesn't stop the water from entering the walls of the basement. Instead, it deals with management of water after it has entered the walls.

If you opt for interior waterproofing, the basement waterproofing contractor will install weeping tiles to direct the water from the basement to a sump pump system.

Do not compromise on the experience and the expertise of the basement waterproofing contractor. If you choose an inexperienced contractor, he/she can damage the structural integrity of the foundation while installing weeping tiles and sump pump.

4. Exterior Waterproofing - Excavation

The basement waterproofing contractor will begin by excavating the earth around your home. He/she will apply hydraulic cement to take care of affected areas as well as install drainage tiles. If you demand for a window well for better waterproofing, the contractor will build one for you.

Exterior waterproofing is also called "positive side waterproofing" because it addresses the hydrostatic pressure and stops the water entering the basement.

Exterior waterproofing can be expensive and time-consuming depending on the water problem in your home. If water infiltration is caused in more than one area, excavation will be carried out around several foundation walls of your home. It can increase the cost of waterproofing the basement.

One Size doesn't fit all

There is no one best method of addressing the flooding and dampness issues in the basement. Every home is different and it is essential to address the problem by understanding the cause in detail.

For a few home owners, sealants or crack injections will take care of the problem while others may require exterior waterproofing services. So, it is important to contact an experienced basement waterproofing contractor. He/she will suggest you the right method for taking care of wet basement.