Basement
waterproofing may lead to many as the seepage may end up in causing extensive
damage to the whole structure if not properly addressed on time. Sometimes, the
need may apply an additional coat or strengthen it with any supplements to the
basement, and some other times the problem may be coming from the external
walls. In any case, it is ideal for conducting an expert assessment of the
issue and administering adequate waterproofing measures. Let's have an overview
of the basement waterproofing process.
1.
Dig out
In
order to protect the basement of your structure from water, you have to dig
around the outer perimeter of the basement to go to the optimum foundation
base. Applying the right product over the walls is also the key to have a fully
waterproofed basement. You can also think of drainage tiles, crushed stone,
gravel, or perforated pipe which can be installed below the basement area to
protect it from water accumulation or use any approved mechanical measures for
waterproofing.
2.
Checking for any cracks
On
completing the first step of digging, then you may clean the walls and then
check for any types of big or small cracks out there or any signs of water
seeping in through any point. If you detect such an issue, it is ideal for
applying an additional coat of cement using hydraulic pumps to seal the
leakage. The hydraulic cement can expand as getting cured due to its chemical
properties, and it will fall into the cracks to reduce any possible leakage.
3.
Applying sealant
After
application of hydraulic cement to seal the cracks, it is also essential to add
an additional layer of sealant to the exterior wall. There are cement-base
sealants available, which are so easy to apply and also can be applied to
masonry and concrete surfaces alike. The sealant will get hardened into
concrete pores and close them. In cases of hairline cracks also, which may not
get fixed with the application of hydraulic cement, sealants will help to cover
these too.
4.
Applying a membrane
After
applying hydraulic cement and sealant, you can also install a waterproofing
membrane on to it. It's a heavy coat of a waterproof substance as
asphalt-enriched polyurethane or so, which can be sprayed or troweled on the surface
to seal the wall completely to avoid water seeping into it from outside. These elastomeric
membranes, which are made of asphalt have excellent waterproofing
characteristic. The electrometric membranes are able to flex and move to
accommodate the cracks which occur due to temperature changes. Always make sure
to apply a waterproofing substance instead of the common damp-proof products
which may fail.
5.
Implementing drainage mats
At
the next step, it is advisable to install some drainage mats also with. It
should be made of materials which can ensure adequate air gaps between the wall
so that moisture can be transferred to the drain duct. Drainage mat also should
be sized as per the depth of the foundation wall. Using it will also help to
ease the lateral pressure against the basement wall.
6.
Install French drain
You
may also install a French drain or use weeping tile. It is ideal to use a pipe
of at least 4", which must be installed onto the basement to keep the
water level beneath the basement floor. It is also ideal for installing the
cleanouts to offer easy access later for any maintenance tasks. Once it is also
done, then you can fill back the pit with gravel and then complete the
installation of the French drain. Use grave of 18″ at earth areas and 4″ where
cement is filled.
7.
A few things to avoid
While
doing the above essential things in basement waterproofing Kansas
City, there are few things you should also abstain from doing as
below.
–
Don't use any tar compounds. It may become
brittle over time and easily crack.
–
Don’t use plastic materials also to waterproof
the basement. They may peel off, and then water will again enter.
–
Also, don't use any limestone to fill. It
will ultimately reduce the drainage capabilities and tend to clog the drainage.
Gravel is the best choice to make.
Choosing
a professional basement contractor
A
homeowner cannot perform the above tasks all by his/her own. In case of serious
tasks like basement waterproofing, it is essential to get the assistance of a
skilled and professional basement waterproofing service. If you are concerned
about your belongings getting damaged by water leaking into your floors, then
it is ideal to consider calling in a good waterproofing contractor. Keep the
following things in mind while attempting it.
Checking
credentials
Always
check if the contractor you approach is licensed and has needed credentials to
take up such tasks. The professional waterproofing providers must be insured
and bonded too. Check for their years of experience in this industry and also
ask for references.
Warranty
The
top contractors in basement waterproofing also offer warranties also the
clients to ensure the quality of work. It is also essential to check for the
warranty of the installed products also along with work guarantee. It is ideal
for getting a 10 to 25 years warranty for crucial home improvement tasks like
basement repair and waterproofing.
Cost
You
can save a significant sum by comparing the offerings of various contractors.
Many are offering competitive rates as there is a bit of competition in this
market sector. You can find many affordable options out there, but it is ideal
to consider the experienced and technical knowledge of the provider also along
with the cost to make the best choice. The providers may also offer a free
inspection of your basement to check for issues and also a free estimate for
the work needed.
Services
Some
basement waterproofing contractors may only offer this sole service, but it is
better if you get a full-spectrum home improvement service provider who can
look into other allied issues too. Say, for example, one very common issue
related to basement water seepages is the need for wall straightening in order
to ensure that the waterproofing is offering the best results.
In
order to ensure that you avail only the services which are needed to you, it is
ideal for getting an unbiased inspection of your basement by a third-party
Evaluator. During the inspection, you can ask essential questions also regard
the type of construction materials they use and also the experience and
expertise of the inspectors and workers.
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