Construction & Contractors Blog
Your basement is prone to flooding due to its below-ground location, as well as its proximity to water sources. The basement is vulnerable to flooding from heavy rains, plumbing leaks, and even groundwater seepage. Also, many basements have improper or poor drainage systems to help prevent flooding and water damage. These factors increase the need for your basement to be waterproofed. You can learn more about basement waterproofing in this article.
What is basement waterproofing?
Basement waterproofing is a process that involves using various solutions to protect the basement from water and other moisture-related issues. The goal of waterproofing is to create a barrier against water and moisture from entering the space, which can lead to mold growth, water damage, and even structural damage. This is done by preventing water and moisture from entering, and by providing adequate drainage so the water is steered elsewhere.
How is waterproofing done?
Basement waterproofing includes using interior and exterior methods to create a watertight barrier that protects against moisture.
One way this is done is by addressing vulnerabilities around the exterior of the basement. This can involve cleaning the exterior walls, looking for cracks, and then repairing those cracks. A coating can be applied to the exterior walls that will continue to provide protection.
A drainage system can also be put in place around the perimeter of the foundation that collects water, such as rainwater, and redirects it. The water will get redirected away from the basement and be deposited in an area where it will continue to naturally drain away from the structure.
Interior waterproofing is also done by installing a proper drainage system, like a sump pump, that collects any water that does come into the basement and removes it.
Just as the exterior walls were inspected and sealed, the interior walls will be as well. This is an important additional step to offer a final line of defense against water and moisture.
Any damages that create an increased risk of water damage will also be repaired to reduce the risk of future water-related issues.
What are the benefits of basement waterproofing?
The most obvious advantage of basement waterproofing is keeping the basement dry and in good condition.
Another benefit of waterproofing is raising the property's value. The value increases because a properly waterproofed basement will be appealing to buyers due to the reduced risk of future problems. The waterproofing measures taken also help to increase the expected lifespan of the structure.
The basement will also be usable for things like a recreational space or a living space when there isn't a significant risk of water damage. Also, there will be peace of mind knowing the basement is adequately protected.
Share9 May 2023
There's a common misconception that all construction workers and contractors do the same job. On one hand, this is kind of true. Construction workers and contractors all built things. However, most people in this field have a specialty. Some hang drywall. Others paint. Still others know how to pour foundations or install roofs. While some construction workers and contractors move from field to field throughout their careers, others spend their career honing one particular skill. Either approach is fine, from our perspective. What we really care about is the excellent work that these workers do, and that's what we plan to feature on this website.