Not many people are familiar with the intricacies of basement waterproofing but largely there are two fundamental approaches to the topic of how to keep water out of your basement. With the basement waterproofing information you get from this article you will be able to understand what is going on with your home. Do you know any of the fundamentals of basement waterproofing your home’s foundation?
One approach is to stop it at its’ source, which would be to waterproof externally, while the other is to let the water in and manage it away, which would be interior waterproofing.
Naturally the preferred method of choice is going to be to attack the source but sometimes this isn’t possible and an interior waterproofing solution must be implemented in its’ place. The severity of the issue may also give you no choice but to waterproof externally because the damage or possible damage is that severe. Here we take a look at the differences and benefits to exterior and interior waterproofing to help assist you in deciding which one is best for your basement.
Interior
An interior drain tile system is often chosen when trying to rectify moisture seeping through into your basement. This is done by digging up the area next to the wall, fitting in a plastic pipe that is perforated, installing a membrane against the wall, and connecting this to a sump pump. This will serve to reduce the hydrostatic pressure underneath your property – this is the natural pressure that pushes water in an upward direction towards your floor and ultimately through the cracks therein. If, by chance, water does find its’ way into your basement, a sump pump ensures that it is safely removed in a timely fashion.
Exterior
There are two methods generally used when a basement waterproofing professional is assessing your basement:
a) Waterproof Membrane
One doesn’t need to be a rocket science to understand the logic behind its’ use. A waterproof membrane is produced from an asphalt-modified polyurethane material and is applied over the exterior of the foundation walls to ward off water penetration. While it is easily understood, it is costly to complete and often reserved only for the more severe wet basement problems as it requires the entire foundation to be dug out to allow application of the membrane.
b) Exterior Drain Tile
Much like the interior drain tile system, this one is merely applied on the exterior of the basement wall rather than on the interior side. It functions in the same capacity.
These are the more popular methods of interior and exterior waterproofing. Depending on the severity of the problem, the cost, and the level of coverage that a homeowner is seeking, these three factors will ultimately decide which method is best for their situation. It is recommended to consult with a waterproofing expert before deciding upon a method as an expert will be able to assess the condition of your basement accurately.
Aqua Tech Waterproofing is only a call away and offers a free assessment of your basement. With a 10/10 customer service rating on Home Stars and a proven track record of over twenty-five years of high quality work behind them, Aqua Tech Waterproofing can provide more information on the benefits of interior and/or exterior waterproofing.
