Why Basement Waterproofing is Essential for Your Home

Basement waterproofing is essential to protect your home from moisture damage and maintain its structural integrity. If you notice an unpleasant smell when you go down your basement steps, it might be the result of mold or mildew development. If the air seems damp or moist, especially after a rain, check for cracks. As a house settles, hairline fractures may occur in the concrete walls or basement floors.

Sealants and Epoxy Injections for Basement Waterproofing

Waterproof sealants on walls and epoxy injections in cracks and gaps are great ways to keep moisture out of your basement. This procedure entails putting a waterproof coating in place to prevent moisture and mold or mildew growth. It is a simple technique, but it has to be removed any existing mold or mildew before applying.

Sealants: Standard acrylic sealants are affordable, costing between $1 and $8 per square foot. They are suitable for concrete walls, but not for painted drywall. If your basement walls have been painted, they must be stripped first.

Epoxy Injections: Used to repair cracks and leaks in the basement floor and walls. Epoxy is long-lasting and easy to install, with prices ranging from $800 to $1,500. T

For more information on epoxy injections, visit the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) 

How Interior Drainage Systems Protect Your Basement

Interior drainage systems are intended to handle water concerns without disrupting your vegetation. Sump pumps, available in both submersible and pedestal configurations, play an important part in these systems. Submersible pumps must be installed beneath the floor, whilst pedestal pumps are easy to install.

Interior drain tiles can be added to help a sump pump work more efficiently. These tiles lower hydrostatic pressure while protecting your basement walls and foundation from groundwater pressure.

To learn more about interior drainage systems, visit the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) 

Comprehensive Exterior Waterproofing Solutions

Exterior waterproofing is a comprehensive solution for protecting your basement and foundation from water damage. One of the first stages is to install gutters and downspouts that will drain rainwater away from your foundation. This typically costs roughly $1,900 for the average home.

French drain: Another strong solution is to build a French drain. This entails digging a trench and inserting a perforated pipe and gravel to direct water away from your property, with an average installation cost of $9,250.

Exterior drain tiles: combined with a sump pump allow proactive water management. This includes digging around the foundation, layering gravel and filtration cloth, and applying sealant to prevent water seepage. The cost ranges between $4,000 and $15,000.

For an in-depth guide on French drains, visit the American Society of Home Inspectors (ASHI) 

Comparing Waterproofing Methods: Pros and Cons:

• Sealants and Epoxy Injections: Cheap and simple to apply, but they do not treat the underlying cause of moisture and typically last around ten years.
• Interior Drainage Systems: Effective at managing groundwater without disrupting landscaping, but does not keep water from entering the basement.
• Exterior Waterproofing: Offers long-term protection and keeps water from entering the basement, but requires professional installation and may harm landscaping.

For more details on how to handle moisture concerns during basement renovation, check our guide on 10 Steps to Plan a Basement Renovation (follow link).

Get Professional Help for Your Basement Renovation and Waterproofing Needs

If you notice a musty stench or moisture in your basement, you must address the issue immediately to avoid major damage or even sometimes health risks caused by dampness and mold. Visit our website to get professional help with any renovation or waterproofing projects. Learn more about our basement waterproofing services at icicontracting.ca