Which Basement Waterproofing Method is Suitable for You?
There is nothing worse for your home, as having a wet basement. It might all start with a tiny trickle or even a small puddle, and if not early addressed, it might result in much greater problems. This might eventually cost you considerable amounts of money, not forgetting consuming much of your time with the repairs; caused by the structural damage, toxic mold, or even by water in your basement. What can you do to ensure that your basement is always dry as well as preventing moisture from making its way in? Or which basement waterproofing method is suitable for you?
To effectively answer this question, we, first of all, need to understand what causes moisture to have its way in your basement comes from. Some of the primary causes of moisture in the basements include;
- Unfitting soil and drainage systems:
These are the most common causes of the basement wetness. Definitely, if the rainwater or even the groundwater around your homestead has challenges in drainage, it may end up in your basement. Ensure that these waters are always directed away from your home, or else, they will end up accumulating in your foundation, finding their way in your basement.
- Improperly installed and maintained water gutters:
Generally, the gutters are meant to direct the rainwater away from your house’s foundation. However, if poorly installed, or even clogged to function effectively, they may end up draining the water in your foundation, rather than directing it away.
- Improper Slope:
The ground that surrounds your foundation should be sloping away from your foundation, and not towards it. In case of wrong sloping, the chances are that water will automatically end up accumulating in your foundation, instead of running away from the basement.
- Hydrostatic Pressure:
This usually occurs when the water is accumulated around your house’s foundation. As the water is pushed down by gravity, it will attempt to escape, so as to relieve the accumulated pressure. This eventually results in the water slippage through any crack that is in your basement floors and walls. And if the pressure gets too much, it might lead in causing massive cracks on these walls
- Cracks in the basement walls/floor:
Having cracks no matter how minor they are in your basement floors, walls, and around doors or windows acts as a seamless avenue in which water can flow, finding its way in. Water always flows in the direction or path with the least resistant, and with the cracks, the water will easily come inside the basement.
- Condensation:
The basements are known for their dampness. If condensation takes place, it may bring along with it the mildew or mold, posing potential damage on your structure.
What are the top three basement waterproofing techniques?
Now, with a better understanding of the possible causes of the basement moisture, lets highlight on some of the most popular methods of basement waterproofing;
1. Interior waterproofing
These are the measure taken in order to keep water off from your basement, from the inside. However, this method is often used once an existing problem has been pointed out. This may include the use of coatings and sealants, not forgetting condensation preventing measures.
2. Exterior waterproofing
Just as the name suggests, this method takes place on the outside of your homestead. The main aim of this technique is to block the water from even nearing or having its way inside in the first place. This involves creating waterproof barriers by installing the exterior drainage systems or even coating of the exterior walls.
3. Drainage waterproofing
Mostly, basement moisture is caused by drainage issues. This technique involves repairing any faulty drainage system or adding a more effective drainage system, where necessary.
Which technique is right for you?
Each home is different, and each scenario should be addressed separately. Depending on the factors that might be causing the basement wetness, apply the most suitable basement waterproofing method. Not sure of this? Consult a professional for help.
However, some people tend to save money in terms of opting for cheap repairs, and eventually end up incurring even more. It is always advisable to address any basement wetness issue early enough and in the best way possible.
Remember, your home remains your biggest investment, and thus the need to protect it with whatever it takes.
