Basements leaks are a hassle on their own, but what if they evolve and turn into floods? Nobody wants to come home and find their basement flooded; especially if it’s fully furnished and renovated. But that isn’t possible! A basement isn’t fully furnished and renovated unless it is properly waterproofed! And when waterproofing it, you get maximum protection of unwanted, excess water!
When left to fend on their own, basements get scared and completely lose functionality; sometimes resulting even in severe structural damage. So to answer the question What are the Top Methods of Waterproofing a Basement here are; the top 3 basement waterproofing techniques which one day might just save your home and your life;
Interior
The most affordable way to waterproof your basement is with focusing on the interior. As the name suggests, doing an interior waterproofing means that you’ll be fixing up your walls and floors on the inside of the basement. The most common way water enters a closed up space is through cracks and leaks. And it does this quite often, to be honest. Since concrete breaks under pressure and old window are usually loose; your basement is constantly exposed to water leaks and damage.
This waterproofing method involves sealant coatings. So if you have cracked up walls or floors, the contractors first will fix them and; then will apply a waterproof sealant. There is also foam-sealant which is induced in cracks where it expands; and stops excess water from coming inside. Besides redirecting water, it also reduced humidity levels and thus mold and condensation.
Exterior
Even though interior waterproofing is highly effective; some homes face more difficult scenarios. When you have underground springs or extreme weather conditions, exterior waterproofing is the way to go. So if the first one focuses on the interior; we can easily conclude that his one is applied to the home’s exterior. Unfortunately, the process is very time consuming and costly. However, it does pay off since along with interior. You’ll have a full guarantee that your basement stays nice and dry for many years to come.
This waterproofing method involves excavations and polymer sealant. First, the exterior perimeter of your house is dug up; and then the sealant is applied to the wall. This sealant is usually polymer based but can be made from other material as well. It is so strong and water resistant that no threat can break its barriers; including detached and malfunctioning gutters.
Drainage
Besides doing an exterior waterproofing for stopping accumulated ground water to enter your basement; you can focus on stopping the water from accumulating in the first place. Some types of soil are more vulnerable to water than others. And if you mix a vulnerable soil with frequent rain and a gutterless roof; you will surely have your garden flooded in no time. Fortunately, smart contractors invented ways to keep your soil dry and prevent water from doing damage either to your home or garden.
There are tons of ways to drain the soil. One of them are weeping tiles, trench drains and of course gutters. All of these gather excess water and direct it in a proper disposal area. Far away from your foundation. Before you choose what kind of drainage to invest in; consult with experts and plumbers because each mechanism has its own pros and cons. Another useful thing to know is that if a large amount of water has accumulated in the soil. It can put severe pressure on your walls; and damage your basement as well as your home’s foundation.
About Draintony
We are a plumbing company; providing residential and commercial owner plumbing services. We specialize in Drain Repair, Drain Cleaning, Basement Waterproofing; Sump Pump Installation, Clogged Toilets and more. Our team at Draintony will provide you premier plumbing quality and premier plumbing services. Hope we helped you finding out what are the top methods of waterproofing a basement.
