[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Modern waterproofing techniques have now made wet and damp basements, a thing of the past. Over the past few decades, the construction industry has grown in leaps and bounds, especially when it is comes to waterproofing techniques and the material used for waterproofing basements.
Waterproofing is a necessity when any structure is built below or at the ground level. Many structures face moisture problems, which could be due to water seeping through tiny cracks in the foundation, or when the ground water reaches saturation and starts rising.
A wet basement leads to structural damage to the building and can ruin any expensive renovation. Cracked walls, mould, buckling walls and efflorescence are a sure-fire sign of water damage. The walls of the building can buckle and moisture seeping through the walls of your basement will eventually make it unliveable.
The techniques used for waterproofing a basement will stop water from entering the building, by the use of effective sealers and drainage. There are various techniques available for basement waterproofing, which include interior wall and floor sealants, interior drainage, and exterior drainage with waterproofing coatings.
For concrete foundation that has cracks and openings, interior floor sealants are used. Urethanes or Epoxies are pressure injected in the cracks, to fill them up in order to stop water leakage.
The interior drainage system uses a French drain to collect the water, before it enters the basement. It also uses vapour barriers to collect water coming from wall cracks, pipe protrusions, and directs it to the drain. This drain directs the water to a sump pump, which then carries the water out of the house.
When one needs to tackle condensation, interior waterproofing is the best option, especially, if the problem is that of minor dampness. Here, a sheet or tile covering will conceal drainage structures that carry and drain the water from the house.
Exterior waterproofing will help to stop moisture eroding the foundation of the building. A waterproof membrane, usually made of asphalt modified polyurethane is applied directly on the exterior walls of the foundation. Exterior drain tiles are also used, where a perforated pipe of a heavy duty material is used, which will be then connected to a sump pump.
Basement waterproofing will ensure that the property remains in a good condition and can fetch good value in the market. Whether the basement is used for storage or as a family room, it is important to keep it moisture and mould free to have a safe and healthy environment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]