Basement waterproofing entails various materials and methods to keep water away from a building or a home below the ground level. Waterproofing an underground basement can involve the use of sealants, the installation of submersible sump pumps and drains, and other necessary precautions.
Why Do You Need Waterproofing Solutions?
Waterproofing your basement can also be a simple matter of improving the design of your home so that it’s more resistant to water. If your home is prone to floods and looking for ways to protect your property against future flooding, waterproofing your basement is a great option.
Moisture Issues
Damp areas around the foundation can lead to basement waterproofing problems such as water leaks and mold growth. As soon as you notice any water leaking from around the foundation, contact a Fargo basement waterproofing professional right away. Water leaks may appear to be nothing more than a slight gurgling sound, but if your ears are sensitive, you’ll probably be able to hear water dripping down on the floor.
Cracks and Wall Leaks
Unfortunately, small leaks often lead to larger ones that can result in structural damage to the foundation. Cracks in the foundation may allow moisture to seep through, causing dampness and mold growth. A watertight foundation will protect your home against rainwater and keep your family dry during severe weather.
Mold Growth
Small cracks may not seem like major issues, but if water gets behind them, then small cracks can develop into large water leaks over time, causing dampness and mold growth. If you notice cracks around your basement floor, then there’s a good chance that you have dampness that will be affecting the quality of air in your home. A waterproofing expert can detect any cracks in your foundation and recommend solutions that will make your house waterproof and safe for living.
Setting Proper Drainage Inside
Your home’s interior drainage system typically isn’t a very efficient leak prevention mechanism. Basement waterproofing methods may include placing drains on your basement floor or installing an interior drainage system to reduce water damage. While the best way to prevent leaks is to eliminate the root cause, in many cases, leaks still occur. In these cases, your best bet is to hire a waterproofing company to repair any water damage caused by cracks or leaks.
The interior drainage system is designed to relieve water pressure on your house and allow it to move out instead of staying put. Unfortunately, some drainage systems are designed poorly and can allow water to pool around your foundation. To prevent this from happening, your best bet is to hire a sealant to waterproof your basement. There are three main types of basement waterproofing sealants; flexible core, rubber-based, and concrete-based sealants.
Waterproofing Membrane
Another option for exterior waterproofing is to use an outer waterproofing membrane. This membrane acts as a very effective siding. Unfortunately, many people make the mistake of installing the wrong type of exterior waterproofing membrane. If you have concrete walls and floors, you will need a different exterior waterproofing membrane than if your walls are made of plywood and concrete.
Sealing Both Sides of Walls
If your structure has structural damage, you’ll most likely need to consult with a structural engineer to see what you can do to waterproof your basement walls. In many cases, structural damage is caused by water seeping into the basement. Sealing the walls can help prevent excessive moisture from building up and becoming too saturated.
However, sealing only one side of the basement isn’t enough to prevent flooding in the future. Sealing both sides of the basement will also help prevent structural damage from occurring.
