Which basement waterproofing system is best?
One of the most overwhelming things to deal with as a homeowner is a leaky basement. There are many temporary fixes, but when there’s a big rain or the snow melts in the spring, you may find there are some places where water is getting in, and your basement is damp again. Taking the time to research your waterproofing options as a Hamilton homeowner can save you a lot of money in the long run and keep your basement dry so you can enjoy all of the space your home has to offer. There are generally three approaches to waterproofing a basement – so how do you choose the best one for you? Here’s what you need to know.
Cracked Basement Wall Injections
This solution involves injecting sealants and/or epoxy into the cracks of your basement/foundation. This kind of solution is usually considered to be a band-aid solution to a leaky foundation and is much more budget-friendly for homeowners who may not have the money available to install a complete drainage system.
When not done properly, one of the problems commonly experienced with this solution is that epoxy can crack when the foundations expands and contracts with the weather. Thankfully, there are solutions which uses a flexible sealant in combination with an impermeable membrane to prevent these leaks from happening with the changes in weather. This system can be a holdover for a drainage system – but it is important to also consider installing a drainage system.
Interior Drainage for your Basement
Making sure your basement is waterproof from the inside is another recommended solution for homes. First, it’s usually the most cost-effective in terms of budget and does not require exterior excavation to install. This kind of system is usually referred to as a French drain and requires digging a trench in the basement along the interior perimeter and then installing a drain and a sump pump to remove any water in the basement.
There are a few options for this method, and some of them are known as hidden drainage because the trench is right where the wall meets the floor. This option diverts water right to the sump pump and is far less noticeable by homeowners.
Exterior Waterproofing for Foundation Walls
This option is the most expensive of all options for keeping water out of your basement, however, it keeps water out permanently. Exterior Waterproofing involves putting membranes and polymers on the outside of the home, forming a coating to protect against moisture. For some homes, there could also be an exterior drain dug underground to help drain the water away from the home but not every house needs this option.
Exterior Waterproofing does cost more, as it involves more labour, time and materials. However, when done properly, your basement walls should never leak, crack or warp again. Flash storms, spring thaws and heavy rains are no longer a worry.
Contact Conterra Foundation and Repair Today
If your home has a damp basement, it could be a precursor to bigger problems or the cracks getting worse. Contacting a foundation specialist like Conterra Foundations is the best way to address these types of issues before they get worse. If you would like one of our technicians to determine what the best waterproofing system is for your basement, give us a call today.
