Drip, drip, drip … That's a sound that nobody wants to hear while relaxing at home.
Keeping your home safe, dry and waterproof is one of the most important things you can do, whether you've been in the house for years or have recently moved in. It's been shown that 98% of basements in the US will suffer some form of water damage at some point, so don't think it won't happen to you.
Waterproofing your home can be an interior or exterior job (or both), and you might choose to combine several methods where necessary. Read on for full details on some of the most effective waterproofing methods and whether or not they're right for your home.
Exterior Foundation Repair Solutions
If you've ever had water leak through your foundations or into your basement, exterior waterproofing is essential. Depending on the specific issues affecting your home, we may recommend one or more of the following solutions:
- Partially rebuilding the foundation: This will involve digging around your home and can be quite costly and inconvenient. However, if your home is prone to flooding then this measure will save you a fortune in the long run.
- Applying hydrostatic mastic: This is a less involved option that's still very effective. Special rubberized sheets are applied to the outside of your home, covering cracks and making it impossible for water to infiltrate.
- Installing a new drainage system: If your water problem is caused by incorrect drainage, then a new drainage system is essential. This will ensure that water drains away correctly and can't seep back into the home.
Interior foundation repair solutions
Interior waterproofing solutions can be used alone or in conjunction with exterior solutions to keep your home dry.
Waterproofing a property from the inside involves carefully filling in any cracks or holes in the walls and ceiling. Getting a good finish takes longer and is often more costly than filling in cracks on the exterior of the property.
A special latex-based waterproof paint can then be applied to the inside of the property. Interior paint is less likely to be damaged by wear and tear since it's not exposed to the elements.
An interior drainage system in your basement is ideal if you're often flooded during storms. Water will simply drain away down specially-created channels, and you'll never find yourself knee-deep after a bad rain storm again.
Sump pump installation
Sump pump installation is a great choice if your basement floods regularly, or if the water table is above the foundation of your home.
The pump works to remove water from a sump basin in the basement of your home, reducing the risk of flooding and dampness. The water from your sump drain will usually be sent to a storm drain, dry well or sewer, where it can no longer cause an issue.
There are two main types of sump pump to choose from:
- Submersible sump pump: This pump is smaller, saves space, operates quietly and is the most common type of pump in new houses. It comes with a backup battery, which means it will continue to operate even if the power goes out. This type of pump is the most expensive.
- Pedestal sump pump: Since it's not submerged in water, this type of pump tends to last longer. It's also easier to access than a submersible pump. However, a pedestal pump has less power and is slower to clear water -- not ideal if you live in a high rainfall area.
Don't wait until it's too late to think about interior and exterior waterproofing solutions for your home. By taking action today, you'll save time, money and stress in the future.