Basement waterproofing

Basement waterproofing is done when the basement floor or basement foundation becomes damp. There are various reasons because of which the foundation becomes damp or wet. Usage of poor quality material while building the basement foundation is one of the major reasons behind the wet foundation.

 One should consider basement waterproofing when one sees signs such as:

  • Cracked walls and widening of the cracks
  • Peeling of paint. The paint seems to peel off from the walls.
  • Buckling of walls. Mostly caused by hydrostatic pressure. Walls appear to be bowed inward.
  • Mold: Fungi that usually grows in damp areas. Dark areas.

Some major causes of water seepage and leaks are:

  • Pockets of air are not removed while construction of the concrete foundations.
  • The footings of the foundations are very narrow causing soil erosion which in turn causes water seepage.
  • Gutters are clogged or the downspouts are broken. The rainwater gets absorbed into these areas increasing hydrostatic pressure.
  • Ground saturation is another common reason for basement leaks.

To overcome the above causes basement waterproofing is done. Basement waterproofing involves many methods.

Different basement waterproofing methods are:

  • Interior wall and floor sealers
  • Exterior waterproofing coatings
  • Interior waterproofing

Interior wall and floor sealers

This method is used in poured concrete foundations. The cracks and drainage pipes are most common entry points of seepage. These openings have to close.

To close this opening permanently Epoxies which are strong adhesives or urethanes injections at the openings are used. The openings are sealed using this method.

Exterior waterproofing coatings

This is one of the fastest and flexible methods used to waterproof the foundation. Excavation of existing basement is done at the bottom sides of the footings. Then the walls are power washed and dried.

These dry walls are then sealed with the waterproofing membrane. The membrane consists of the polymer. This polymer-based products are long-lasting and can be directly sprayed on the wall directly.

Interior waterproofing

This method is used only in minor dampness. This method does not stop major leaks. In this method, coatings are used where condensation is the main source of wetness. Coatings of low-quality adhesive are used.

This method is not recommended for major leaks. Small leaks can be covered only for a temporary time period.