Basement waterproofing entails various materials and techniques utilized to prevent water from entering a building or a home’s basement. Waterproofing an underground basement can involve the application of special sealants, the installation of sump pumps and drains, and the excavation of cracks in the foundation. While there are numerous methods of basement waterproofing available today, many homeowners find it best to hire the services of a professional waterproofing company. There are a few factors, however, that homeowners should consider when selecting such companies.
Before making final decisions on which waterproofing specialists to hire, homeowners should first take the time to research the market. A vast selection of basement waterproofing service providers exists in most communities. It is important for homeowners to be aware of the range of services each company offers, as well as the cost and longevity of their product offerings. It is also important for homeowners to ask for references from past customers.
The majority of waterproofing companies provide basement waterproofing services that involve the removal of existing water-bearing structures (such as basements and porches) within a residential community. This type of waterproofing is commonly referred to as “dry basement repair.” In order for a dry basement repair technique to be effective, it is necessary for the water source to be removed completely. Most basement waterproofing companies employ the use of pump-based sub-microwave systems, which are designed to eliminate basement moisture. These methods employ the delivery of water through doors, into a vacuum system that removes water entirely from the basement.
In addition to dry basement repair, many basement waterproofing companies provide “wet basement” services. In essence, this type of basement waterproofing process works to remedy drainage issues by creating a watertight seal around the exterior of the home. The most typical materials used in wet basement waterproofing systems include concrete mix, tar/felt mixes, waterproofing paint, rubber components, and fiberglass. Although these types of products are effective, they can often be inadequate when it comes to protecting the interior of the home. Additionally, many of these products contain chemicals that can prove harmful to the environment and can encourage the growth of mold.
Effective methods of waterproofing are designed to allow for the removal of existing moisture. Any homeowner interested in achieving effective basement waterproofing should make sure to consult with a waterproofing contractor in the area. Although the average homeowner may be able to perform some degree of preventative measures, there are a number of steps homeowners can take to strengthen the foundation of their home. In addition to using effective basement waterproofing materials, a homeowner should also be sure to create a basement space that will serve as a secondary living space. This secondary living space should be equipped with appropriate furniture in order to combat the effects of any inclement weather.
In terms of basement waterproofing, preventing moisture from entering the home through cracks and crevices should be the primary focus. Wet areas around the foundation should be sealed in order to maintain the structural integrity of the home. In addition to sealing in moisture, homeowners should also consider repairing any drainage problems within the basement. Small cracks or crevices may be repaired using a waterproofing compound, while larger cracks should be pumped and filled with cement. For large water entry issues, like sinks, faucets, or plumbing pipes, waterproofing contractors can often seal the area completely.
There are a variety of methods used for waterproofing a basement. Some basement waterproofing methods use chemicals or synthetic materials that will protect your home against soil moisture, while others use a solid membrane to block any leaking from beneath the house. Regardless of the method that is chosen, most basement waterproofing systems will involve the replacement of old or deteriorating materials, like flooring, roofing, or wallpaper. In many cases, the only remaining option to solve water issues is to hire a qualified contractor to do the job, as well as to conduct routine maintenance on the home’s drainage and plumbing system.
In the end, waterproofing a basement shouldn’t cost a great deal of money, but it does require time and effort on the homeowner’s part. If your basement has drainage problems or you’re simply looking for a way to keep excess water out of the house, waterproofing isn’t something that should put you off completely. Even if your basement floods once or twice a year due to storms or other factors, waterproofing can prevent further damage from occurring by significantly reducing water damage to your home. The most important thing is that you take the time and effort to waterproof your basement properly, so that you can enjoy it for years to come. To learn more about waterproofing visit Weather-tite Waterproofing Inc.