Sourcing the right basement waterproofing products for your basement project is just as important as hiring the right contractor for the job. Get one wrong and you’ll be forced to shop around again. And that means extending timelines and digging deeper into your pockets for extra work hours.
In this post, we highlight 9 important basement waterproofing solutions for your and how they can help keep your basement clean, dry and odor-free.
Water may somehow find its way right into your basement because of hydrostatic pressure. The answer to this is installing an interior perimeter drain system in the basement’s sub-floor. This system will help you intercept water from the walls and floor before it becomes a flooding issue. Drainage systems can be set up in less than a day and serviced all year round. Make sure yours is clog-resistant.
If your home is at threat of basement flooding, and you have an interior drainage system, the most sensible thing to do is to get a sump pump. It will help you move water out of your basement. Ensure that yours has an airtight lid and a sump pump liner to prevent sediment build-up. We strongly recommend that you also get a unit that has battery backup capability so you’re not caught off guard during power outages.
You can eliminate dampness and musty odors from the basement by installing a dehumidifier. We strongly advise you to get a unit that combines an air filter and humidity control, as well as one that self-drains into a sump pump system.
Using cell spray foam, you can quickly and easily insulate your basement. Spray foam helps you seal up crevices and cracks, and it is ideal to use in rim joist areas. Because it’s fast-acting, foam insulation locks out moisture and warm, moist air from your floor and wall preventing condensation.
Technically speaking, they’re your first defense against basement water or flooding that can cause hydrostatic pressure and water seepage. They work by channeling water away from your home, specifically your foundation. Go for a clog-free design that flushes dirt and debris. When installed properly, downspout extensions can also curb soil erosion around the home.
Insulating your basement floor and walls can reduce the risk of frozen pipes during winter, mold growth, air leaks, and dampness. All these are problems associated with below the home areas. The outcome is a dry and comfortable basement that requires little to no heating.
If your home is threatened by floods, you’ll need to get a system that stops flooding right from the outer entryway or doorway. A grated drainage pipe can serve this purpose really well. It works by accepting water from the floor and channeling to your perimeter drainage system, directing it to your sump pump. You can lay it across your floor preferably on the inside of the door to stop debris from getting in and clogging it.
It’s useful in preventing leaks through basement cracks. Instead of using patching mortar, which adheres poorly or breaks when there’s a slight movement, use a wall crack repair. Your contractor will apply a flexible sealant along the length of the crack then install a flexible foam over it. Afterward, they will adhere an impermeable membrane on both sides of the strip. This ensures any future seepage trickles down the walls into the perimeter drainage system.
Since the environment surrounding the basement is naturally damp, it’s advisable to install a plastic vapor barrier to protect this room. Such systems are durable, waterproof, and treated with anti-microbial protection. A good vapor barrier should be able to cover rough surfaces and irregular walls. When buying, ensure you get a product warranty usually in the range of 20 to 25 years.
Looking for a complete line of basement waterproofing products for your Richmond, VA, home? Schedule a free basement waterproofing inspection and get reliable and fully warrantied products for an upcoming project.
