The Basement, which is often overlooked, serves as a support to your home’s structural integrity. However, it is also one of the most prone areas to attract water damage. For this very reason waterproofing has now become necessary when you plan to build or renovate a house.
Read this article to know why proper basement waterproofing is required to increase the value and life of the house.
Let’s begin,
What is the significance of basement waterproofing?
Basement waterproofing is more than just saving yourself from the inconvenience of a damp basement. It is actually a proactive measure that aims to safeguard your home from damage and expenses that arise from home repairs. A damp or leaky basement can lead to the following mentioned situations:
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Structural damage:
Here, water may seep under the foundation of your house to weaken the structure of your house.
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Mould and mildew growth:
Did you know that a moist environment is the preferred breeding ground for mould and mildew? Anyhow, know that this situation can lead to serious health matters such as breathing difficulty.
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Decreased property value:
An untreated moist basement can significantly minimize the resale price of your home.
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Higher energy costs:
Moisture in the basement can cause an increase in humidity throughout your house. To remove the excess humidity, your HVAC system has to work longer, which may lead to higher energy costs.
What are some common causes of basement water infiltration?
The first step of effective waterproofing is to understand the source of the water infiltration. Some of the most common issues that contribute to water issues are as follows:
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Poor drainage:
Improper grading around the foundation or clogged gutter can lead to the building of water around the basement wall.
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Foundation cracks:
Over time, the natural setting of your house or the soil condition can change. This can lead to the genesis of cracks in the foundation, which might allow water to seep through.
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Hydrostatic pressure:
This occurs when water collects in the soil surrounding the foundation and exerts pressure that forces the water into the basement.
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Sump pump failure:
Sump pumps are used to remove the surplus water from the basement. A faulty sump pump can lead to the accumulation of water or flooding in the basement.
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Lack of vapour barrier:
A vapour barrier is critical to prevent moisture from escaping through the basement walls.
What are the main methods for basement waterproofing?
The good news is that there are many effective methods to carry out the work of basement waterproofing. The choice of solution depends upon the extent of the issue and the structure of your house.
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Exterior waterproofing:
This is a proactive solution that aims to prevent the entry of water into the basement in the first place. It includes the techniques mentioned below to direct water away from the foundation of your home.
- Waterproof coating
- Installing drainage boards
- Ensuring proper grading of the land
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Curtain drains:
It is also known as interceptor drains. They are ditches filled with gravel that intercept and divert the surface water away from the foundation of your home.
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Crack injection:
If cracks in the foundation are the source of water infiltration, then a method of crack injection can work. This method involves injecting a special sealant into the cracks to prevent further water penetration.
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Sump pump installation:
Sump pumps are vital for managing groundwater. They collect the excess water and throw them away from the foundation of your house.
How to select the right waterproofing agency?
Waterproofing is a work best done with the help of professionals. Below are some of the ways by which you can do the same:
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Research and Reputation:
- Begin by researching different waterproofing agencies in your area.
- Look for agencies with a strong reputation for providing effective waterproofing solutions.
- Check the reviews that describes the service of your target waterproofing agency.
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Experience and Expertise:
- Prioritize agencies with a substantial track record in the waterproofing industry.
- Choose a company that specializes in basement waterproofing or has a proven history of successful projects.
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Licensing and Insurance:
- Ensure the agency holds proper licenses and certifications as per the local regulating authority.
- Verify that the company has liability insurance and worker’s compensation coverage to protect you and their workers during the project.
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Free Inspections and Estimates:
- Look for agencies that offer free inspections of your basement to assess the extent of waterproofing required.
- Request detailed calculations that outline the scope of work, materials, and the included cost.
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Quality of Materials and Techniques:
- Ask about the quality of materials and waterproofing techniques the agency uses.
- Choose an agency that employs proven, high-quality materials to ensure long-lasting results.
Emerging Technologies in Basement Waterproofing
As the technology improves over time, the methods and tools for basement waterproofing also improve. Below are some of the emerging technologies in the field of waterproofing:
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Exterior membranes:
Advanced Waterproofing membranes are designed to be highly practical against water infiltration while allowing the basement to breathe.
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Interior drainage systems with smart monitoring:
There are many modern interior drainage systems in the market that come with smart monitoring capabilities. These systems can alert home owners to any issues and provide real time data on the moisture level of the basement.
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Hydrophobic sealants:
These sealants repel water by creating a barrier on the surface of the foundation walls and preventing water from seeping through.
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Elastomeric coating:
These coatings are flexible and can stretch to accommodate foundation movement. With the help of these coatings, you can prevent the penetration of water from the cracks.
Final Words!!
In the end, know that basement waterproofing is done for the long life, safety and value of your house. By addressing the source of the water infiltration and choosing the right method, you can protect your property from structural damage, mould growth, and reduced resale value.
Whether you opt for interior or exterior methods, the goal remains the same: to keep your basement dry and house secure. Finally, remember that the basement of your house is not just an extra space to store items; it’s a shield that protects your most valuable assets.
