In a home without proper waterproofing, surface water can create mold and mildew, cause musty odors, and cause severe damage to surfaces like floors, walls, and wood. It can also lead to health problems such as allergies and respiratory illness. Look for a company that offers a warranty on their work. This is particularly important for work that involves excavation or the use of specialized equipment.
Egress Window Wells
When a basement is finished, it can be an ideal living space. Still, it’s essential to maintain its health and safety. Dampness, mold and mildew, pest infestations, and other problems can lead to uncomfortable living conditions and structural damage over time. Fortunately, experienced basement waterproofing contractors can prevent these issues and protect your home. An egress window well is one of the most critical components of a healthy basement. Egress windows are designed as emergency escape routes for the basement, and they typically have a form of ladder or stairs built directly into them to help people escape in an emergency. Egress windows can also add natural light to the basement, improving living conditions and increasing energy efficiency. Aside from the safety and comfort benefits of egress windows and wells, they can also reduce moisture and improve ventilation in below-grade basement spaces. Moreover, they can help homeowners comply with building codes and regulations and increase property value and curb appeal.
Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure is the force standing water exerts against basement walls and flooring systems. It is an ever-present problem that requires a series of interlocking projects to manage correctly, or it will eventually lead to musty odors, mold, and wood rot that can compromise the integrity of the entire structure. The outermost ring or zone of the home is where moisture seeps in, and it includes everything from poorly graded soil that sends water alongside foundation walls to downspouts and gutters that don’t drain properly. Another significant issue is the presence of window wells, which can pool with water. The outermost ring can often be addressed with exterior waterproofing methods, which typically involve digging down the foundation walls’ footers and laying a membrane. However, these projects can be complicated and involve extensive excavation. It is best left to an experienced professional who knows how to dig without creating more problems than they solve and which products are the most appropriate for the job. Interior solutions are also available, such as weeping tile, baseboard channels, and French drains that transfer water from the basement to a sump pump or drainage system away from the house.
Waterproofing Membranes
Many homeowners use their basements for storage, laundry, or playroom. Water damage often impacts this space, which leads to humidity and mold. Mold can affect health and is a significant source of odors in the home. It can also cause breathing issues and is a considerable risk for anyone with asthma or allergies. Waterproofing a basement from the outside is vital to stop water at its source. Waterproofing membranes are a good choice for this purpose and can be found in several materials like polyethylene, PVC blends, rubber, and coated fabric. They are also available in a spray-on application or sheet form. A waterproofing membrane stops moisture from getting into the walls of a basement, prevents cracks, and allows for easy access to utilities. It can also help reduce energy costs because humid air forces your HVAC system to work harder to remove Dampness in the home. A waterproofing membrane is the best solution to keeping your basement dry. It can be paired with an external drainage system to prevent water accumulation around the foundation.
Drainage Systems
The outermost ring, or zone, is everything outside your house: the dirt around it, gutters and drainpipes, window well covers, and egress windows. This is where you want to stop the water before it gets near your basement. A standard solution is installing a drainage system called “drain tile” buried close to the foundation. It’s designed to transfer surface water and groundwater to a sump pump or other drainage system that can be drained away from the house, especially during flood conditions. Another option is to install a French drain, a buried pipe covered with a dirt-inhibiting cloth, and a layer of gravel. This can be one of the more expensive solutions, but it is long-lasting and highly effective. Other waterproofing methods include using special sealants and coatings to prevent high atmospheric humidity from absorbing into masonry walls and causing spalling, but these are only temporary fixes. The most permanent solution is to have exterior basement waterproofing during the home’s construction. This is one of the most cost-effective ways to protect your basement.
Warranty
A company with a warranty is worth considering, as it provides peace of mind if anything goes wrong with one of the installed products. Depending on the solution, warranties can cover replacing or repairing that equipment. Waterproofing a basement can be an involved project that requires the expertise of a professional contractor. This includes identifying where the leaks are coming from and which method and products will be most effective. It also means determining whether excavation is necessary and how long the job will take. When choosing a waterproofing company, homeowners should ask about their experience and track record. A reputable company will be in business for a long time and have a lot of satisfied customers to back up their work. It’s also a good idea to find out how much they charge and whether or not their quotes are binding. Some companies offer a flat fee, while others charge by the hour. Ask if their rates include the cost of materials.
