Waterproofing Foundation Walls From Outside

There are many methods and techniques for foundation waterproofing. They imply using different materials and equipment. All of them have their supporters and opponents. However, the main thing here is that foundation waterproofing from outside that is usually called exterior waterproofing foundation walls has more benefits than anybody can imagine. It helps prevent water penetration into the house which is exposed in different ways – from slight water seepage to powerful flooding. All these issues happen when the soil around the house is over-saturated with the moisture of various origins. All in all, such a problem does not have a single solution, and it cannot be repaired with one material or technique only. It needs a whole complex of measures to be effective.

The Tornado Plumbing & Drains Company has a lot of advantages compared to its competitors in carrying out the tasks of waterproofing and control of the moisture. The company is a reliable contractor whose main goal is to develop individual waterproofing systems for satisfying all the needs of different types of homes. You can contact this waterproofing company immediately if you need to solve the excess moisture issues, and they will schedule the evaluation and making up the costs estimate on the site.

How Is Damp-proofing Different from Waterproofing Foundation Walls?

To keep any moisture out of foundation walls, damp-proofing is normally used. It differs from waterproofing. The latter is meant to block both moisture of different origins and water flooding into the basement.

Read also: Leaky Basement Repair

Damp-proofing is very often considered to be very effective and long-lasting protection to basements and crawlspaces. Moreover, this technology is simpler and cheaper. To make it work still better, an appropriate surface drainage system should be installed from the outside, the drains at the footings need to work smoothly, and there should be no hydrostatic pressure that enhances the infiltration of the water. Alas! Such conditions are not always available, first of all, because of some natural and technological factors. Larger cracks cannot be amended in this way. The holes caused by ties at the junctures cannot be sealed either with this asphalt-based coating meant for damp-proofing. The backfill which has been done roughly, incorrectly, and carelessly can present a great potential for the issues that cannot be solved by damp-proofing as well. As for the coating, it can be applied by hands or in the form of spray used on the exterior walls. The method is not widely-used nowadays and it can hardly be recommended for new residential buildings. Though, it is quite applicable in a variety of individual situations.

Still, if there are some doubts or reasons for questioning the usefulness of damp-proofing in certain situations, it is always better to apply waterproofing a foundation. It takes almost the same amount of care and time while being utilized for drain pipe or surface treatment, but it is more durable and reliable. If you care about your residential place and its safety, spend a bit more money and effort on waterproofing, and you will spare yourself of any issues and headaches in the future.

External Waterproofing Membrane

The worst nightmare for owners of residential and commercial property is a wet basement with immense leaks from the foundation wall. There are some causes for this disaster. The most widely spread of them are poor mixing of concrete while constructing the foundation, defects in downspout drainages and/or gutters as well as incorrect grade sloping that directs the excess water into the house instead of taking the moisture away from it.

The question emerges how to waterproof foundation walls from outside. If you are a new homeowner, you would prefer to live in your house safely and without any issues for a long time. Advanced construction technologies allow for that. However, you will need recommendations from an experienced contractor on whether it is necessary to waterproof the basement from its exterior and what amount of excavation work you will have to apply to it. The right and certified contractor usually has the full kit of tools and equipment to do some on-site investigations and on their base, to offer the most reasonable solutions. The experts will also advise on the best technique for exterior waterproofing of your basement.

Creating an external waterproofing membrane is the most popular and applicable method that has been used for over 30 recent years. The membrane is made of such waterproofing materials as tar and polymer that create a durable water-resistant barrier. Since the method is applied on the exterior side of basement walls, it may turn out to be an intensive and skill-consuming process that can be implemented and managed by a very experienced contractor only.

Read also: BASEMENT INSIDE – INTERIOR BASEMENT WATERPROOFING

This process consists of the following stages:

• Excavation: There is a need for some additional space at the foundation footings that would allow technicians to work fast, efficiently, and comfortably. That is why the excavation is needed at this spot and sometimes, the digging may appear rather extended.
• Cleaning and preparation of the wall. Before applying the waterproofing membrane to the exterior part of the basement wall, this wall needs to be prepared. The thorough cleaning is required to remove the soil, broken mortar, and any other dirt and debris. When all these wastes have been scrubbed off, you may be sure that the membrane will hold tightly to the wall. If the brick wall is uneven and coarse, the workers apply pare mortar to make it smoother.
• Application of the waterproofing membrane. The method of membrane application depends very much on the type of material. The technicians can spread the thick layer of coating with the help of towels or spray the substance around over the surface.
• After the coating is completed, it is left for some time to get cured. When it is dry enough, all the excavated ground should be backfilled.

Exterior Waterproofing Drainage

Installing the waterproofing membrane in the exterior part of your basement wall is not the only way for making your space water-resistant. The exterior drain tile is also quite effective. It can help diminish the hydrostatic pressure by draining the excess water away from the wall. It can be installed separately or alongside the membrane.

Of course, you will not manage waterproofing foundation walls outside on your own. This is a specific and complicated process that can be trusted to experienced experts only. Try to check whether you have addressed your issue to truly reputable and trustworthy contractors. Such well-qualified technicians only can make your waterproofing project a long-standing success.

Get a quote. Fix your basement problems. Be fully satisfied.

Basement waterproofing is easy with Tornado Plumbing & Drains. Compare ways to solve your basement issues, and save money. We care about you, your home, and the work we do. See all cities where Tornado is.

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