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Wet Basement Waterproofing
Wet basements can result from slow drainage caused by heavy rain, flooding, or melted snow that surrounds the foundation, then enters through cracks or porous openings in the foundation. Wet basements lead to mold and can cause structural damage to the foundation, if left untreated.
Wet basement problems need to be addressed as soon as possible. Untreated, they can lead to a variety of problems that can increase structural deterioration, or pose health issues. Both of which will lead to reduced property value.
PROFESSIONAL TIP: There are two main ways to achieve waterproofing goals; Interior & Exterior procedures.
We Conduct Both Exterior & Interior Waterproofing
Exterior Waterproofing – Dealing with the Root Cause
Exterior waterproofing requires excavation around the exterior foundation walls. Once the wall is exposed, our team will clean and inspect and then seal with a waterproofing membrane after repairing cracks in masonry walls. This is why we consider Exterior Waterproofing procedures to deal with the root cause of leaky basements. New drainage is added (weeping tiles) and tested for proper drainage. Exterior waterproofing is a more extensive repair, but it is the best long-term solution for waterproofing your home.
Window Well Repairs
Another source of wet basement leaks is window wells. These are vulnerable entry points for water because they are below ground level. Window well drains are an essential solution to keeping basements dry and properly protected. Without these drains, window wells can overflow with water that will end up in your basement. Drains in the window well will ensure water is diverted away from the basement and prevents flooding into the home. Similar issues can apply to aground level basement windows.
PROFESSIONAL TIP: Proper window well maintenance is essential to avoid basement flooding. Always make sure that window wells are free from sticks, debris, leaves and mud buildup.
Interior Waterproofing
Another procedure to waterproof a wet or leaking basement is to install an interior weeping tile system. These systems⎯commonly known as an internal perimeter drain system⎯ are an alternative to external waterproofing options. Internal waterproofing is a good option when it is difficult to conduct exterior landscaping or in the case when both exterior and interior procedures are required.
NOTE: Hydrostatic pressure problems are often caused by water pressure from external soil that is saturated with water or a rising water table that pushes water through your basement floor.
An Interior Basement Leak Repair Requires 3 Main Components;
(1) an interior weeping tile system with a drainage field in the basement floor
(2) a drainage pipe
(3) a sump pump to remove the collected water
With the installation of materials such as drip moldings, wall vapor barriers and retarders, the unwanted water is collected from cracks in the wall or foundation defects and then drained to a sump pump which pushes the water out of the basement where it can no longer cause damage. This work is done on the interior of the home or property.
When do I select an Interior Waterproofing solution?
1. The leaking or wet area cannot be fixed from the exterior due to inadequate space, restricted access, or personal preference.
2. The water-related issue is on the inside, through what is known as a hydrostatic pressure, then an exterior solution requires inside support.
3. Finally, if your basement is not a space that is often used (i.e. unfinished or not used as a living space) then internal waterproofing is often attractive as it costs less and disrupting the interior space is not as much of a concern.
What is a Sump Pump?
Sump pumps are devices that remove water from your basement via a sump pit. As water accumulates in the surrounding water table around your home, it can possibly leak into your basement. Sump pits collect this water and the sump pump directs the water out of your home completely. Sump pits also collect water that is in your basement from flooding and ensure that it is diverted out of your home instead of accumulating on the floor in your basement and causing damage.
Mold and Air Quality are the Main Benefits of Waterproofing
Mold in basements is an common problem. The presence of moisture means that the risk of mold growth is high. Wet or leaking basements need to be dealt with immediately. This is especially true in Ontario, where we have four seasons with a wet winter and spring.
Mold Detection
In order to detect mold, look for stains on the surfaces of your basement in a variety of colors: green, black, brown, yellow and even pink. In addition, if your basement has a musty smell, there is a good chance that mold may be present.
In order to prevent the growth of mold, always ensure that your basement is properly sealed, does not have leaks and does not have a water problem of any kind. Dry basements are the key to avoiding mold growth and the associated problems. In the case of flooding or water damage in your basement, know that mold can start to grow within a 48-hour window, so don’t hesitate to contact your basement waterproofing professionals at the first sign of unwanted water in your basement.
Why is mold dangerous?
First, mold is dangerous for human respiratory systems because mold is a fungus that will release dangerous spores into the air that can affect lungs, skin and allergies. Long term exposure to mold has been known to cause headaches, asthma attacks and various lung problems.
Second, mold can cause damage to the structure of your home. It can eat through the surfaces it is growing on, including basement walls, drywall, and insulation. Just because you may not live in your basement or spend time down there, does not mean that mold cannot affect you. Mold is an indoor air quality issue for the entire home, because once the spores are released, they can be spread throughout the home.