All you need to know about exterior basement waterproofing

When the basement wall is constructed, the contractor installs a drain system and waterproofs the wall along with exterior basement waterproofing, right? Well, it is seen that most foundation contractors use damp proofing methods rather than waterproofing methods. This spray appears like waterproofing emulsion, but it gets watered down with time. They may also install a perimeter drain poorly. Sometimes they may use corrugated pipes in the drain because the excavation isn’t graded for right drainage. The pipes run up and down along the end of the excavation and a plumber rock is used to cover it. Lastly, backfilling is done with loose soil, trash and waste.

All these add to an exterior basement waterproofing system which may last for decades.

Get efficient exterior basement waterproofing services

The first thing to properly waterproof the exterior is care. Always choose the right materials, taking complete time and using the right workmanship for the project. Without these things, your home cannot be waterproofed efficiently. Moisture is transferred from the outside of the house to the inside by different ways.

  • First is water flow. Water takes the lowest resistance path and paves its way into your basement.
  • Second is capillary action. It is like a wick, as water is absorbed by the concrete till it gets saturated and scatters water vapor inside the house.

How to ensure professional basement waterproofing?

If exterior water is entering into your basement, then you need efficient exterior waterproofing. To correctly waterproof your house, it should be excavated. The footing requires exposure and all the exterior issues should be dealt with.

Clean the foundation wall and apply a spray or roll on polymer waterproofing product. After it dries, the coating should be covered with a dimple board material. It safeguards your sealed surfaces and supports water flow downward.

A drain pipe is installed for properly sloping the constant drainage. It can be connected to a sump pit according to the layout of the area. A clean rock is used to cover the drain pipe. Then a non-woven textile is wrapped to prevent clogging.

If your house has windows below grade and requires window well installation, then it is done. A 4-inch weeping tile installation is done from the window well inside to the footing. To avoid clogging, maintain a distance between pipe and weeping tile.

Gravel is placed over the weeping tile to prevent a lot of water absorption through the weeping tie. Lastly, backfilling is done to restore the place to its original condition.The backfill can range from 1’ to 60 percent of the height of the wall, according to the condition of the soil. This will fully waterproof your foundation and no water will penetrate your basement from the exterior.

Exterior waterproofing is essential

Proper exterior basement waterproofing isn’t a simple chore and shouldn’t be attempted by untrained people. It is done to provide a permanent solution to your house. For more information, contact your local exterior basement waterproofing expert today!

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