What is External Waterproofing?
External Waterproofing is the process of sealing the exteriors of a building to ensure that water does not
seep into the interior of the home through cracks in the joints, walls or foundation. External Waterproofing majorly centers on sealing the foundation of a building. A good Basement Waterproofing bridges cracks in the foundation and can last for as long as 50 years.
Related Article: What is Internal Waterproofing?
Benefits of External Waterproofing
External Waterproofing offers several benefits to the home and the homeowner. Here are a few of how External Waterproofing can benefit you:
1. It helps to reduce moisture in the basement and also prevents musty odor and allergies.
2. It strengthens the foundation of the building and reduces the rate of damage likely to occur on the foundation walls.
3. It helps you to save thousands of dollars in repairs.
4. It prevents the belongings inside the building from getting damaged by stopping moisture from seeping into the building through leaky basements.
5. It makes the home structurally sound; hence, the resale value of the property is increased.
6. It gives homeowners peace of mind, whether they are at home or away on vacation.
Common Exterior Leak Problems
Certain areas of a building are more susceptible to seepage than others. Here are the common external leak problems:
1. Window Well
Water accumulation in the basement window can seep into the building through the window sill. Replace weak or faulty Window Wells to keep the accumulated water level below the window sill and drain faster instead of pooling up in front of the window.
2. Block or Brick Foundation
The mortar joints and air voids could be a passage for water to seep in. The spots where blocks overlap may be porous enough for water. In addition, water usually settles at the brick foundation and seeps in at the slightest opportunity.
3. Joints
Areas of the home built at different times are vulnerable to joint leaks. The major areas to check for
leaks include the joints between the foundation wall and footing, foundation wall and basement floor, and wall joints between the real home and new extensions.
Top of Foundation
Usually, the foundation is built before blocks are set on it. The meeting point of the two components is
called the sill. The sill, if not properly sealed or it fails, can leak.
Exterior Waterproofing Process
1. Excavating the surrounding of the building.
2. Installation of speed shoring for the workers’ safety and prevention of soil from caving into the dug area.
3. Removal of old weeping tiles and installation of new 4-inch weeping tile and filter cloth.
4. Perfecting the foundation walls for voids and cracks.
5. Application of a trowel on rubber membrane, the main element for the waterproofing process.
6. Installation of a soil side drainage sheet.
7. Placing clear gravel over the weeping tile having installed the waterproofing and membrane.
8. Installation of a window well and a 4-inch weeping tile.
9. Backfilling with the excavated soil and compacting to the original level
The Exterior Waterproofing should be done by trained professionals to ensure that a thorough and quality job is done. A sound External Waterproofing lasts for a long time with all its benefits well delivered.
About Draintony
We are a locally owned and operated 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 is dedicated to providing you premier plumbing quality and premier plumbing services.
