5 Components Of An Efficient Basement Waterproofing System

13 March 2023
 Categories: Construction & Contractors, Blog


Basement waterproofing is a crucial part of home ownership. It can prevent costly damage and keep your home safe from flooding or moisture damage. Here's a closer look at the components that make up basement waterproofing, so you can be sure your house is protected.

Proper Grading

The first component of basement waterproofing is proper grading. The soil around your home should be graded away from your foundation walls and towards an area where water can drain away from the house. This process helps to ensure that any water on the ground will flow away from your home instead of accumulating and seeping into the foundation walls. If you have an older home, do not assume that the grading is already done correctly. As landscaping projects are added each year, the soil can shift and actually direct water into the basement. A basement waterproofing expert can access your drainage for you.

Gutters

Another important component of basement waterproofing is an efficient gutter system. Gutters help to catch rainwater and then direct it away from your foundation walls and towards a storm drain or other suitable location. Without gutters, rain pours off your roof and lands directly on the ground next to your foundation, saturating the soil and risking water infiltration, which could weaken your foundation long-term.

Exterior Membrane

An exterior membrane is a layer of rubber material that goes over the outside of your foundation walls and helps to keep water out of your basement. This material prevents water from seeping through cracks or crevices in the foundation and keeps it out of the house altogether. If your home was not built with an exterior membrane, you could add one. This addition would require excavating the soil next to your foundation, applying the membrane, and then backfilling with the soil again. It can be time-consuming and expensive, but it is crucial to basement waterproofing.

Interior Waterproofing

Interior waterproofing involves applying a layer of sealant on the interior walls of your basement, creating an extra barrier against moisture seepage. This type of waterproofing works best when combined with an exterior membrane for maximum protection against water damage in your home's basement area.

Sump Pump

The last component in effective basement waterproofing is a sump pump. Sump pumps are your last line of defense against water entering your home. They are installed in the lowest point of your basement, near the base of your foundation, collect any excess water, and pump it away from your house. Sump pumps prevent both flooding and moisture damage. In a heavy storm, your sump pump can get overwhelmed. It is important to check on it during periods of heavy rain to make sure it is doing its job well.

Keeping your basement dry is essential if you want to protect your home. These five components work together to ensure your home is safe and dry.


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