Importance Of Basement Waterproofing

It first appears as a tiny trickle or small puddle. Perhaps you first notice a lingering musty smell. Moisture in your basement can lead to an array of costly and time-consuming repairs: structural damage, toxic mold, degraded billing materials, ruined furnishings. 

Moisture is always present underground – and especially during rainy periods. It penetrates through basement walls and floors whenever any of the following conditions exist:

• Inadequate waterproofing of exterior walls during construction
• Cracks caused by expansion and contraction as the seasons come and go
• Joints opening between walls and floors due to foundation settlement
• Openings created to allow access for water pipes and cables
• The general failure of the building medium due to initial poor quality

Protecting a basement that is below ground level can require the application of sealant materials, the installation of drains and sump pumps, and more. Depending on the home’s location, age, and building materials, you might choose multiple basement waterproofing methods to protect your Salina home.

Basement Waterproofing In Salina 

Interior Protections

Sealing the interior is the first step in preventing future water damage from leaks or flooding, started by opening a trench inside the basement. Next, an internal French drainage system is installed within the trench to direct water that gathers to a sump pump. Internal sealants are then used to seal cracks that may let water seep through to the basement. Though they cannot stop flooding in the long term, sealing closes up cracks on walls, floors and ceiling so no water gets inside. 

Interior waterproofing methods for your basement are typically the easiest and most affordable. Interior waterproof sealants do a good job at keeping humidity levels down and preventing condensation. While these products and processes are an important step in the overall waterproofing process, they do not address the underlying problems causing the moisture. The bigger problems are usually found on the outside.

Exterior Waterproofing

More extensive (and more expensive), these methods to block water from ever making its way inside in the first place. This can include exterior drainage systems and coating the exterior walls with a waterproof barrier.

Exterior waterproofing for your basement typically requires the excavation of the soil surrounding the foundation, a labor-intensive process requiring heavy tools and machinery. Once all the soil around the foundation has been removed, a waterproof sealant can be applied to the exterior walls. 

Good gutters will also help a lot. When properly installed, gutters direct rainwater away from the foundation of your home.  

Addressing Drainage Issues

Poor drainage is the most common cause of basement moisture. These methods can include repairing a poorly functioning drainage system, or adding a drainage system if there isn’t one in place. The goal of these drainage systems is to direct water (whether it be groundwater or rainwater) away from the foundation of your home. 

Each home is different, so be sure to thoroughly examine how the existing drainage around your home is functioning. Additional drainage systems may be needed. Ask the basement waterproofing experts at Lamunyon about sump pumps,  French and surface drains to solve your problems. 

When basement moisture is a problem, you could be inviting a host of other problems into your home such as mold growth, rodents, pests, and insects. Long-term or hidden issues can even cause severe structural damage to your home.

Established in 1973, Lamunyon provides a range of services to help home and business owners. The basement waterproofing experts know the best preventative measures and cleanup procedures to protect your home. Whether this means taking care of mold that may be growing or replacing damaged walls and flooring, we are here to help.