Waterproofing

The first step in basement waterproofing is to identify the source of the leak.  This can usually be accomplished by consulting with the homeowner to determine where and when the problem occurs.  Not doing it right the first time can have truly disastrous results.  A leaky foundation in a residential building can damage finishes and furnishings, even the structure itself.  In a commercial building, water can ruin expensive equipment and disrupt vital work.  It all adds up to lost money, wasted time, upset customers, and sometimes litigation.

Hydrostatic pressure:  This is when the source of seepage is at the cove joint, where the floor and wall meet.  Often this occurs when the water table rises after prolonged rain or snow melt.  The accumulated weight of water in the ground forces water underneath the footing and up into the basement.  The best solution to this type of problem is the installation of a drain tile system.  The drain tile relieves the hydrostatic pressure by providing an easy path for the water to escape to sump pump basin or other runoff point, thus eliminating the water pressure so that the seepage problem goes away.

Cracks in foundation wall: Another of our repairs involves sealing cracks in poured concrete foundation walls.  Cracks are readily visible in an unfinished basement; leaking cracks leave water stains on the foundation wall.  In a finished basement, the diagnosis starts by identifying the area where the water first enters the basement, then searching the exterior for a crack.  Most cracks extend to the top of the foundation wall, which is normally exposed above the soil line.  Cracks can be sealed from the interior using our pressure relief method, or from the exterior using waterproofing system including 4” draintile-1”gravel-sealing the walls and the use of drainage panels and a runoff for excess water.  Both methods are very reliable in preventing further seepage through the crack and into the basement.

~For causes of cracks in foundation walls ~

Go to FOUNDATION REPAIR for details.    Water over the top: Sometimes the diagnosis will show water coming over the top of the foundation, through the mortar joint between the brick that sits atop the foundation wall.   This situation occurs because the exterior grade is built up above the top of the foundation wall, either by earth, mulch, or by the previous construction of driveways, walks, or patios.  This can easily be confirmed by running a garden hose on the ground alongside the area in question.  Water will usually enter the basement quickly, so we recommend that you stand by ready to turn off the water at a moments notice.  Often, lowering the grade is not a viable option in these cases.  We usually recommend that an exterior surface drainage system be installed.  It only needs to redirect the water from the wall at the soil line down and away from the foundation.

There are many other ways water can enter a basement, as well.  The key to waterproofing your basement starts with properly diagnosing the source of the problem.  Jack Boiman Sons & Daughters offers a free consultation and estimate by a trained and experienced estimator as the first step in basement waterproofing.   WE DON’T TRY TO OVERSELL, WE ONLY FIX WHAT NEEDS TO OR WHAT YOU WANT FIXED.