Mar 18, 2019

A Beginner’s Guide to Step-By-Step Approach to Basement Waterproofing



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.
image:www.foundationrecoverysystems.com/waterproofing
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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