Basement waterproofing prevents water from entering a building’s basement. The process involves applying sealant materials, installing drains and sump pumps, among other activities.
Basement waterproofing is essential, especially for places with high water tables or where groundwater seems to accumulate in the soil. Damp soil exerts hydrostatic pressure underneath basement walls and floors. This pressure forces water through the cracks causing damages to the structure.
This article discusses the methods used to waterproof basements. Besides, the article also explains the various types of basement waterproofing products.
Methods of Basement Waterproofing
There are three methods of basement waterproofing. They include:
- Interior waterproofing
- Exterior waterproofing
- Interior and exterior drainage
These methods are explained below.
Interior Waterproofing
The method involves sealing a cracked concrete foundation from inside. Special sealants are applied on the opening to penetrate through the crack towards the exterior, thus sealing the crack from leaks and moisture. This method is much easier and pocket-friendly.
The sealants used are usually highly effective, and they last longer. Although these sealants effectively prevent humidity and leaks, they are not the best when high water pressure is exerted against the foundation.
For high effectiveness, you can use the sealants alongside waterproof coatings. However, this, too, will fail in fixing major basement leaks.
Exterior Waterproofing
The method helps in preventing any moisture from entering your building. It involves digging the area around your home to the foundation’s bottom. The waterproof coating is then applied after a full excavation, thus waterproofing the walls and direct water towards a drainage system.
The drainage can be directed to a slope or a sump pump leading away from the foundation. Exterior waterproofing prevents moisture from penetrating your building through the walls or foundation.
Interior and Exterior Drainage
A proper water drainage system is ideal when the water has leaked into your building. Using a sump pump is a great way of installing a perfect drainage system. The pump will collect all the water from inside and pump it away from the building.
The drainage system should be constructed so that it still works despite having a power outage, heavy snowstorm, or other adverse climatic conditions. You can even decide to upgrade your drainage system by making it airtight or using vapor barriers. This frees the area from dangerous mildew and mold.
Basement Waterproofing Products
Waterproof Seal
The system utilizes cell mesh to seal freshly placed concrete, thus preventing water penetration. It does not require blinding concrete, priming, or protection to install.
EPDM Waterproofing Membrane
The system uses a single-ply rubber waterproofing membrane (manufactured from EPDM synthetic rubber) to waterproof a basement.
Cementitious Coating
The system uses an acrylic-modified waterproofing membrane that is Portland cement-based. It resists any pressure under 100m in underground structures.
Polymer Modified Bitumen Coating
It consists of rubberized bitumen emulsions and a fiber-reinforced powder component. Its application is much straightforward even on wall-floor junctions and pipe penetrations.
Conclusion
Your ideal basement waterproofing method will depend on factors like basement construction and the structure’s ground depth. Water can damage your building and result in costly repairs. With basement waterproofing, you are likely to avoid the repairs.
