When it comes to wet basements, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. The suitable waterproofing method for your home will depend on where the water is coming from, what is causing it, and the type of foundation you have.
Exterior waterproofing is a costly and complicated procedure that involves excavating the soil around your basement. A waterproof sealant is then applied to the walls.
Foundation Cracks
Structural cracks in your basement wall are a warning sign that you may have serious foundation problems. They can lead to several serious issues, including bowing walls and shifting.
They can also cause mold infestations and water damage, which can be costly.
If you notice a crack that runs vertically or diagonally across your basement wall, it may be a sign of foundation settlement.
In this case, it’s essential to immediately call a professional for an inspection.
A foundation contractor, like in the basement waterproofing Parma, will determine if the crack is structural or non-structural and can advise you on how to repair it.
If it’s a non-structural crack, your basement waterproofing contractor usually fills it with epoxy. This will stop it from widening and allow water to seep in in the future.
Soil Moisture
Soil moisture is one of the most critical factors when waterproofing your basement. By evaporation and plant transpiration, soil moisture regulates water and heat energy exchange between the soil and the atmosphere.
It’s a key player in developing climate patterns and precipitation production! The volume of soil moisture is relatively small, yet it is essential to many hydrological, biological, and biogeochemical processes.
Several governmental and corporate organizations that deal with weather and climate, runoff potential and flood control, soil erosion and slope failure, reservoir management, and water quality, among others, might benefit from data on soil moisture. Accurate information about soil moisture temporal and spatial variation is especially critical for several of these applications. This is why a wide variety of soil moisture sensors and remote sensing methods are being developed, along with a growing list of soil moisture data products.
Gutters
Gutters are essential to any home’s drainage system and play a significant role in basement waterproofing. They help to channel water away from a home’s foundation, reduce erosion, and protect the paint by diverting rainwater from painted surfaces.
When gutters aren’t functioning, rainwater runs downhill and pools around a home’s foundation. This creates hydrostatic pressure, which can cause cracks and leaks in basement walls.
Fortunately, a sound gutter system can resolve this problem, and it’s a simple solution that doesn’t require extensive home repairs or costly waterproofing materials.
The best way to get rid of clogged gutters is to clean them regularly. This will remove any leaves, dirt, or debris built inside the downspouts.
Sump Pumps
A sump pump is a tool that helps keep your basement dry. These are necessary to avoid basement flooding, and they also help protect your home from water damage.
When a sump pump isn’t functioning correctly, it can result in water damage to your foundation and the rest of your home. This can cause many problems, from wall cracks to musty smells.
Excess moisture can contribute to mold and mildew growth even if your basement doesn’t flood. These harmful growths can make you sick and mess up your basement if left untreated.
It’s a good idea to check your sump pump regularly for problems. Often, a clogged intake pipe or pump can be easily fixed. But sometimes, a clogged discharge line can be a more severe problem. A clogged pump will drain slowly or may even fail altogether. A loud rattling sound can also be an indication of a clogged impeller.